Vegan Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: fresh parsley, chopped onions, and lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. Rinse and drain the lentils in cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, oregano, thyme, and cumin and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the vegetable broth and tomatoes to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the rinsed lentils and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and garnish with optional toppings like fresh parsley, chopped onions, and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy!