Lentil Tomato Soup

I've lately been on a bit of a soup kick, and this recipe struck me as both easy and interesting.  I'd never cooked lentils before, and it turns out that you can have both easy and tasty.

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 cups water
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2/3 cup dried lentils
• 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cider vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dill weed
• 1/2 tsp dried tarragon
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

1. In large pot, combine the water, carrots, onion, and lentils.  Simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add the remaining ingredients.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce the heat and simmer for another 20 minutes.
3. Serve hot.