Lentil Soup & The Very Best

We made this on a really cold day this weekend with a loaf of homemade bread.  What a way to warm up!  This is a hearty, healthy soup that tastes delicious.

Music: The Very Best - Warm Heart of Africa Another part of this meal that takes you to a warmer place.  Warm Heart of Africa is an escape album that pleases from the first to last song.  Another highlight of the year!

Ingredients: Serves 6

32 oz of chicken or vegetable broth

16 oz of water

14 oz can of crushed tomatoes

3 tbs of olive oil

2.5 cups dry small lentils

1/2 lb carrots, diced

2 red onions, diced

2 cloves garlic, diced

4 celery stalks, diced

2 handfuls of fresh spinach, chopped

1 tsp thyme

2 bay leaves

1 tsp red pepper flakes

salt & pepper to taste

parmesan for serving

Directions:

In a large pot heat up oil to medium and saute carrots, onions, garlic, and celery for 5 minutes.

Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Add lentils, broth, water, and spices, and bring to a boil.  Turn down to low and simmer until lentils are cooked.  Should take at least 30 minutes of simmering.

In last minute of simmering, add spinach.  Stir in for 1 minute until spinach has wilted.

Serve and sprinkle parmesan over.  Enjoy!