During the early days of the pandemic, many of us rushed to the store and filled our pantries with tons of dried beans. A lot of folks bought lentils and they are still sitting there. Lentils are one of my favorite things to make in the colder months and I always have them on hand. Here is one of my favorite lentil recipes— a rich and hearty lentil soup that will warm you up from the inside out. The recipe is gluten free and can be vegan if you use vegetable broth and omit the Worcestershire as most brands typically contains anchovies.

Additionally, you can make this recipe with smoked sausage if your crew just has to have some meat, or they turn up their noses. Hope you enjoy it- it is rustic, simple and very satisfying.

HOMEMADE LENTIL SOUP (VEGAN & GLUTEN FREE)

Makes 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

8 ounces dry lentils, rinsed and picked through to remove any debris

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced small

3 large carrots, diced small

5-6 cups vegetable or chicken broth (Do not use chicken for vegan friendly option)

3 bay leaves

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground pepper

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce* (omit if you are vegan)

1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, minced

2 cups potato, peeled, diced small, and rinsed

1 teaspoon white vinegar

Optional: 1/2-pound smoked sausage, diced. Brown before adding the onions.

A dash of hot sauce or a tiny pinch of cayenne is also optional.

DIRECTIONS:

Rinse and pick through lentils to remove any debris. Set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion and carrots. Cook over medium heat until softened.

Add 5 cups of broth, bay leaves, salt, pepper, Worcestershire, and thyme. (Omit the Worcestershire for vegan as most contain anchovies.) Bring to a boil. Add lentils. Bring back to a boil, reduce to rapid simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Skim the froth from the top and discard.

Add the potatoes. Add the remaining cup liquid if it is needed. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 30 minutes or until the lentils are cooked. Check seasoning: add salt, etc. as desired.