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Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
Method
Cooking Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Lentils
Rinse the lentils under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Set them aside.
- 2
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
- 3
Add Garlic and Tomato
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped tomato, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomato starts to break down.
- 4
Combine Lentils and Broth
Add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf, cumin powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- 5
Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- 6
Final Seasoning
Taste the menestra and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- 7
Serve
Ladle the menestra into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm.