Zürsun Idaho Heirloom Red Chief Lentil Soup w/Grilled Cheddar & Jack Sandwich

I bought these red chief lentils a few weeks ago and have been dying to try the recipe on the back of the bag. I love this soup! Its sooooo good. Not too spicy, easy to make, and filling. I served it with some grilled jack and cheddar on whole grain bread. A perfect cold, Fall dinner! 

Ingredients:

1 cup red chief lentils

3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 sweet yellow onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp. tomato paste

2 tsp ground cumin

1/4 tsp. chili powder, or more to taste

salt & pepper

1 quart chicken broth

1 large carrot, diced

14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes

juice of 1 lemon ( I didn't use lemon in mine)

Directions:

Sort and rinse lentils i cool water. In large soup pot on medium heat, saute' the onions and garlice with the olive oil for 3 minutes. Add tomato paste, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili powder and saute 2 minutes longer. Add broth, 1.5 cups water, lentils, carrots, and tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, partially cover, and turn heat to medium-low. Simmer until lentils are soft, about 30-40 minutes, Taste and add salt as needed. Add lemon juice and serve. Top with a drizzle of olive oil. Garnish with Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy! :)