Rustic Red Lentil Soup

(Mahluta Corbasi)

1 cup red lentils, washed, drained
1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
1-2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 tbsp butter or extra virgin olive oil
1 cup water, warm
2 cups chicken broth
3 tbsp tomato past
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (red pepper flakes)
Salt
Pepper
2 tsp oregano

Saute the onion with the butter for 1-2 minutes, but do not burn the onion! Add the garlic and saute until the smells come out. Then add lentils and 1 cup water, stir. Put the lid on half way and cook for 5 minutes with a little bit under medium heat. The lentils will absorb the water quickly, so check often. Add the chicken broth, tomato paste, cumin, crushed red pepper, salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 more minutes with the lid half way on over medium heat. Season with oregano, stir. Serve this soup with lemon wedges while still warm.

4 servings.

Meal Ideas:
- Chicken with Cabbage, Carrot Salad and Prune Dessert with Walnuts.