Winter Lentil Soup [1]

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 leeks (white and light green parts), cut into 1/4-inch-thick half-moons

1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, drained

2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1 bunch kale, thick stems removed and leaves cut into 1/2-inch-wide strips

1/2cup brown lentils

1tablespoon fresh thyme

Kosher salt and black pepper

1/4cup grated Parmesan (1 ounce

optional)

1

Heat the oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook, breaking them up with a spoon, for 5 minutes.
2

Add 6 cups water and bring to a boil. Stir in the sweet potatoes, kale, lentils, thyme, 1 ½ teaspoons salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Simmer until the lentils are tender, 25 to 30 minutes.
3

Spoon into bowls and top with the Parmesan, if using.

Cooks Note