Red Lentil Soup

It is getting to be that time of year where nothing sounds better than a hot bowl of soup! This was my thought exactly when I started looking for some new recipes. So here is an interesting twist, it is a vegan soup, with great protein content and amazing taste!

Ingredients:

1 c red lentils, rinsed and drained
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 medium sweet onion, chopped
2 cloves of chopped garlic
2 Tbsp tomato sauce
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp thyme
1/8 tsp (or less) chili pepper
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1 stalk of celery, chopped
1 quart vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 tsp lemon juice



Directions:

1. In a soup pot, heat olive oil, onion and garlic until golden, a few minutes.

2. Stir in tomato sauce, and spices, cook for another 1-2 min

3. Add broth, water, lentils, carrots and celery. Bring to a simmer, then cook on medium for about 30 minutes, partially covered. (until lentils are soft)

4. Add lemon juice

5. Puree soup if desired