Legumes are traditional new years foods for good fortune in some cultures. This is a good hearty tasty soup whether or not you believe. Best wishes to all for a happy and peaceful 2007.

dave

Lucky New Years Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients:
1 cup green or brown lentils
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon sea salt
4 cups stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken)
1 stalk celery, sliced
1 peeled & diced carrot
1 can organic tomato soup
1 can Creamy Potato (or Creamy Potato & Ham) soup
1 package dry onion soup mix
1 dash lemon juice
½ cup chopped cilantro (or parsley) leaves
½ teaspoon cumin
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
½ cup dry white wine
sour cream

Directions:
1. Put one cup of lentils into a large bowl with 3-4 cups of water.
2. Discard any lentils that rise to the top. Let sit for at least one hour.
3. Pour lentils into a mesh strainer to get rid of any seeds or particles and let drain for a few minutes.
4. Cover bottom of 3-qt. pan with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
5. Add onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce and sea salt. Sauté until onions are translucent.
6. Add stock, celery, carrot, tomato soup, Creamy Potato & Ham Soup, lentils and dry onion soup mix.
7. Bring mixture to a low boil.
8. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are cooked.
9. Add lemon juice, cumin, nutmeg, and wine.
10. Simmer for a few more minutes.
11. Just before serving each bowl, add a dollop of sour cream to it and stir until blended.