Lentil Tomato Soup

From Taste of Home

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 4 1⁄2 cups water
• 4  medium carrots, sliced
• 1  medium onion, chopped
• 2⁄3 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 2  tablespoons  minced fresh parsley
• 1  tablespoon brown sugar
• 1  tablespoon white vinegar
• 1  teaspoon  garlic salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1⁄4 teaspoon dill weed
• 1⁄4 teaspoon dried tarragon
• 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the water, carrots, onion and lentils; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables and lentils are tender. Stir in the remaining ingredients; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
2. For Sausage Variation: Stir in 1/2 pound chopped fully-cooked turkey sausage; heat through. For Kale Variation: Stir in 3 cups chopped fresh kale; cook, uncovered, until kale is tender. For Spiced Variation: Add 3/4 teaspoon garam masala when adding other seasonings.