Welcome to Teresa’s Cucina! Today, we’re making traditional Italian lentil soup to ring in the New Year. In Italian culture, lentil soup is a symbol of good health and prosperity.
Recipe:
2 stalks of celery, diced
2 carrots, diced
Half of a large onion, diced
2 teaspoons of minced garlic
2 large bay leaves
Basil and oregano to taste, about a half tablespoon each
1 14oz can of diced tomatoes
1 15oz can of tomato sauce
1 32oz carton of vegetable stock
2 cups of dried lentils
Heat a pot over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat, and sauté the onion until translucent. Stir in garlic.
Add celery and carrots and brown until soft.
Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
Add remaining ingredients.
Bring soup to a boil, then let simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, to desired consistency. Add water to thin out the soup if needed.
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and serve with rustic Italian bread (optional)
Have a happy New Year!
Mangia!