World's Best Lentil Soup

All City Diner Lentil Soup

4 Stalks Celery
2 med. Onions
1/2 lb. carrots

4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 c. olive oil
1/2 c. sherry
3 c. water
3 c. chicken or beef broth
2 c. dry lentils, washed
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. cumin

1 tsp. thyme
2 c. drained diced tomatoes
2 Tlb. Tomato paste
1 Tlb. Brown sugar

Sauté veggies in oil
Add liquids, including sherry, & lentils
Boil gently for 1 hr
Add seasonings, tomatoes, tomato paste, & brown sugar

Simmer for 15 min. more
Garnish with shaved or grated parmesan cheese

Do not omit anything or make substitutions. This is a wonderful recipe they served in a top local restaurant several years ago. When I had to add more liquid towards the end (lentils absorb lots of liquid), I used beef broth instead of chicken. I know it says don't make substitutions but that's all I had in the pantry. It was still fabulous.