Lentil Vegetable Soup

Lentil Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:
  • ½ kg masoor lentils (soaked overnight)
  • 4 cups chopped yellow onions (3 large onions)
  • 4 cups chopped leeks, white part only (2 leeks)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
  • ¼ cup good olive oil, plus additional for drizzling on top
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 3 cups medium-diced celery (8 stalks)
  • 3 cups medium-diced carrots (4 to 6 carrots)
  • 3 quarts chicken/ vegetable stock
  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Procedure:
  • In a large bowl, cover the lentils with boiling water and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Drain.
  • In a large stockpot on medium heat, saute the onions, leeks, and garlic with the olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and cumin for 20 minutes, until the vegetables are translucent and very tender.
  • Add the celery and carrots and saute for 10 more minutes.
  • Add the chicken / Vegetable stock, tomato paste, and lentils.
  • Cover and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, until the lentils are cooked through.
  • Check the seasonings.
  • Add the red wine and serve hot, drizzled with olive oil