Roadside Diner

The comfort food craze continues at the Depot de Omnibus Driver. I found a very inexpensive package of deli ham ends at my favorite local grocery store (1.25 pounds for $2.25? C'mon. I'm buying it and I'll figure out what to do with it later), froze half, and used the other half to make one of my all-time favorites:

Omnibus Driver's Knock-Your-Socks-Off Lentil Soup

1 Carrot
1 Rib celery
1 Medium onion
2 Cloves garlic (or one generous spoonful of the jarred stuff from the produce section)
Olive oil
1 Lb. Lentils
10 Cups water, divided
1/2 - 3/4 Lbs. diced ham or sliced smoked sausage
1 Bay leaf
1 Can tomato paste
4 Extra-large beef bouillon cubes (I like the Knorr stuff.)
2 Tsp. Worchestershire sauce
3 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
Lawry's Seasoned Salt and Lemon Pepper to taste

Fine dice the veggies. In a large dutch oven, add olive oil, two turns of the pan. Saute the veggies over medium heat until glassy. Rinse the lentils and add to the pot with the bay leaf, meat and four cups of water. Bring up to a boil, then simmer over low heat for an hour or until the lentils are soft.

Add the rest of the ingredients, adjust the seasonings and let simmer for at least 1/2 hour more.

Serve with good crusty bread and real butter... and a big glass of a bold red wine. Mmmmmmmmmmm!
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And while I'm on the subject of food:

You Are Buttermilk Pancakes

Your prefer traditional, old fashioned foods. You shy away from anything fake, and you like meals with simple ingredients. It's not likely someone would find margarine or diet soda in your kitchen. Instead, someone might find a loaf of homemade bread baking or a soup simmering.

What Kind of Pancakes Are You?

You Are a Blueberry Muffin

You are a nurturing, domestic, homey person. Of all the types, you are the most likely to make your own muffins at home. You don't like to rock the boat, and you're most content when you're making everyone else happy. You are very loyal. You'll defend your family and friends, even if you secretly disapprove of what they're doing. You tend to be a bit shy and withdrawn. You don't make friends quickly or easily. But once you do make a good friend, the chances are high that you'll be friends for life.

What Kind of Muffin Are You?

You Are a Boston Creme Donut

You have a tough exterior. No one wants to mess with you. But on the inside, you're a total pushover and completely soft. You're a traditionalist, and you don't change easily. You're likely to eat the same doughnut every morning, and you pout if it's sold out.

What Donut Are You?

You Are Toast

Old fashioned and a bit of a homebody, you totally go for comfort food. You're the type who loves to cook for friends, and they love you for it. You truly know what tastes good, and you can often pick out the best dish at a restaurant. You don't fall for food trends. You stick with what's been food for a long time!

What Kind of Breakfast Are You?