Lentil Soup, No. 2 Recipe

Lentil soup is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries. With its hearty flavors and nutritious ingredients, it is no wonder that this dish has withstood the test of time. Lentils, a staple food in many cuisines, are full of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent addition to any diet. In this recipe, we will be preparing a delicious Lentil Soup, No. 2, which closely resembles the traditional Dried Pea Soup but with a slight variation.

Fun fact: Lentils have been cultivated for over 8,000 years and were one of the first crops to be domesticated in the Near East. They were highly regarded in ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Romans, and were considered a symbol of wealth and abundance.

Now, let's get started on our Lentil Soup, No. 2!

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and sorted
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup strained tomatoes (optional)
- Small slices of sausage (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent.

2. Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot and continue to cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Drop in a bay leaf and sprinkle in the dried thyme. These herbs will add a delightful aroma and enhance the flavors of the soup.

5. If desired, you can add a cup of strained tomatoes to the soup to give it a richer taste. This will also add a vibrant color and a slightly tangy flavor.

6. At this point, you have the option to include small slices of sausage for added flavor and texture. Sausages such as kielbasa or smoked sausage work well with lentils. Simply add the slices to the pot and allow them to cook along with the soup.

7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

8. Once the lentils are cooked through and the flavors have melded together, season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste. Adjust the seasonings if necessary.

9. Remove the bay leaf before serving the soup. It should be thick and comforting, with the lentils offering a creamy texture.

Lentil Soup, No. 2 is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside crusty bread or a side salad. It is also an excellent option for meal prepping, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer-term storage.

Fun fact: Lentils are considered a traditional New Year's dish in many cultures. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

If you are looking for similar recipe ideas, you might want to try Dried Pea Soup, which closely resembles Lentil Soup, No. 2. The main difference is that dried peas are used instead of lentils, resulting in a slightly different flavor and texture. Both soups are equally delicious and nutritious, so don't hesitate to give them a try!

So gather the ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of Lentil Soup, No. 2. It's a timeless dish that is healthy, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.