Vegan French Lentil Soup

I have never had French lentils before, but now that I have, I know what all the fuss is about! It really does make a difference using French lentils--they are so tasty! French lentils are smaller than brown lentils (the ones that are in most grocery stores) and look dark green when they are dried. This super is really satisfying and is perfect for a rainy day.

For this Vegan French Lentil Soup, you will need:

1 1/4 cups French Lentils, washed
1 onion, chopped
2-3 carrots chopped, depending on size
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 carton Organic Vegetable Stock
1 15 oz can cut tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried Thyme
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic Vinegar Glaze (Trader Joe's has a great one!)
Salt and Pepper
Parsley

Saute onions in a couple tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add carrots, celery and garlic and sauté for a few minutes. Add tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Add dried Thyme and bay leaf. Add entire carton of Organic Vegetable Stock. Bring to a boil, lower to a simmer and cover. Let simmer 40-50 minutes. Skim off any foam that forms. Take an immersion blender and blend a few seconds to thicken soup, but do not blend completely--we still want to see some whole lentils. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of Balsamic vinegar or Balsamic Vinegar Glaze (my favorite!).