Hearty Lentil Soup, Grandma's Style

Instructions

1. 11

   Rinse the brown lentils thoroughly under cold water. Set aside.

2. 22

   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. 33

   Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.

4. 44

   Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to deepen its flavor.

5. 55

   Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, rinsed lentils, dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

6. 66

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. 77

   Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon.

8. 88

   Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty, homemade lentil soup!