Israeli Thick Lentil Soup

Ingredients

 * 1 c. dried lentils, prerinsed
 * 2 cloves garlic, minced
 * 2 carrots, shredded
 * 3 c. chicken broth
 * 2 bay leaves
 * Pinch dried thyme
 * Salt or garlic salt & pepper to taste
 * 1 c. diced cooked chicken or turkey
 * 1 c. chopped onion
 * 4 ribs celery, shredded
 * 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
 * 3 c. water
 * 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
 * Pinch turmeric or curry powder, optional
 * 2 tbsp. lemon juice

Directions

 * 1) Combine all ingredients, except lemon juice and poultry.
 * 2) In a large soup pot.
 * 3) Cover and simmer for 50-60 minutes or until lentils are tender.
 * 4) Stir in lemon juice and chicken or turkey and heat through.
 * 5) Soup will be thick and may be thinned by adding additional water.
 * 6) Serves 4 generous meal sized portions.