French Lentils with Garlic and Thyme

Ingredients

• 3 tbspolive oil
• 1onion, chopped
• 2 clovegarlic
• 1carrots, chopped
• 2celery, sticks, chopped
• 2 1/4 cupfrench lentils, green (Puy) lentils; rinsed
• 6 cupwater, or substitute part with chicken stock for fuller flavour
• 1 tspdried thyme
• 3 leafbay leaves
• 1 tbspsalt

Method

1. 1

   Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots and celery and saute until softened, 5 to 10 minutes.

2. 2

   Add 6 cups of water, the lentils, thyme, bay leaves and salt. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a fast simmer.

3. 3

   Simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the water. Drain any excess water if necessary.

4. 4

   Serve immediately or allow to cool and reheat later.