Hello All, and Happy New Year! Yes, I know I’m over a week late. But I blame this on the jetlag and the ridiculous to-do list I’ve had after spending December in Iceland & France! Hopefully you’ll forgive me… especially after I warm you up with a good stew, right?
See, here in San Fran, it’s really never too hot, and right now, it’s definitely quite cold… which is why I was particularly inspired to make something comforting and warm. And simple too!

French Lentil & Hot Italian Sausage Stew.

Ingredients:

(For 3 full bowls.)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, chopped
2 large carrots
5 ribs celery
1 can (14.5oz) diced tomatoes

5 oz French lentils
2 hot precooked Italian sausages – or any others you’d like (6oz), halved vertically and then sliced
Shredded cheddar to garnish (optional)

Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a 4-quart saucepan. Then add the chopped onion, cover with lid, and cook for a couple of minutes until soft, over medium to low heat.

2. Add the celery. Fry for another two minutes.

3. Add celery and tomatoes. Combine well and simmer for about half an hour.

4. Add French lentils for 4 to 5 cups of water. (I added 4.5 cups.) Keep simmering for another 15-20 minutes until the lentils are just about to be ready. (Note: French lentils typically take longer to cook than other types of lentils. The acidity in tomatoes won’t help either.)

5. Add sausages. Cook for another 5 minutes. The lentils should now be just cooked, and the veggies should be tender.

6. Add salt, red and black pepper to taste. Top with shredded cheddar if desired.