Ingredients

  • 1 thumb-size piece kombu
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 stalks celery, diced
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup red wine
  • 4 cups dried lentils
  • 10 cups water or vegetable stock
  • 1 tablespoon brown rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 tablespoon tamari
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

  • Place kombu in bowl with enough water to cover and soak 10 minutes or until soft.
  • Drain, mince and set aside.
  • In large soup pot over medium heat, saute onion and garlic in olive oil until soft (about 3 minutes).
  • Add celery, carrots, tomatoes and red wine.
  • Rinse lentils and add to pot along with water or stock.
  • Add vinegar, syrup, molasses, tamari, kombu, and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Stir, bring to boil, then reduce heat.
  • Cover and simmer 2 hours.
  • Adjust seasonings and serve.