Lentil Soup Recipe

Thick lentil soup is a protein packed, hearty soup that is perfect for chilly evenings.  This meatless stew-like recipe makes a tasty, budget friendly, one dish family sized meal--that is surprisingly simple to prepare

Ingredients for Lentil Soup

• 1 Tbsp. Butter
• 1 Tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil 
• 1 c. Onion, chopped 
• 1 c. Celery 
• 1c. Carrot 
• 2 Cloves Garlic, minced 
• 1 pound Dry Lentils, sorted, rinsed and drained 
• 1 32 oz. Carton Vegetable Broth (or 32 oz. homemade vegetable stock) 
• 7 c. Hot Water 
• 1 tsp. Salt
• 1/4 tsp. Ground Black Pepper 
• 2 Tbsp. Balsamic Vinegar

Instructions for Preparing Lentil Soup

• Melt butter and olive oil in large soup pot and heat until hot.
• Add vegetables and sauté until 3-5 minutes or until vegetables are nearly tender.
• Add garlic and sauté an additional minute.
• Add lentils to pot and stir to coat in oil and butter.  Thoroughly combine the lentils with the vegetables.
• Saute mixture again for another 2 minutes.
• Add the broth and water and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce heat, cover with lid slightly vented, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serve warm with tossed salad and breadsticks.