Summer Storm "Stewp"

Six days into hurricane season 

and we've already had a tropical storm blow through.

Yesterday TS Andrea came to town 

and brought high winds, and lots of much-needed rain.  

Our rain gauge read almost three inches within a 24-hour period.

You won't hear one complaint from me.

After all the seeds I planted this week,

I can't wait to see what pops up!

When the day brings rain and dreary skies,

I feel the need to make something hearty.

Although you'd think soup would be the last thing to eat 

during these summer-like days,

when a dampness fills the air, 

it feels good to eat something warm and comforting.

This was thrown together in a flash 

because lentils require no soaking, as other legumes do.

You can add more or less water 

depending on how thick you want it to be,

therefore the title "stewp" (stew/soup).

It's great alone, but could be served over rice, couscous, 

quinoa or with homemade bread.

The next time you get a summer storm, give this recipe a try.

It'll make everything alright.

Summer Storm Soup/Stew

1/2 C leek, sliced

1/2 C sweet onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, grated

3/4 C lentils

water or stock to cover

2 T olive oil

pinch red pepper flakes

2 t Italian herbs

1 bay leaf

salt to taste

1 T parsley

In medium soup pot, saute onion, leek, 

carrots and garlic in olive oil 5 minutes.

Add lentils and enough water or stock to cover lentils.

Add seasonings, except parsley and simmer 20 minutes.

Taste for salt and adjust to your liking.

Add parsley.

I add another 1 or 2 T olive oil to finish.

Enjoy!

lunchbox love