Spicy-Smoky-Soulful Lentil Soup

• olive oil, for sauteing (about 2 tbsp.)
• 2 small onions, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 6 teaspoons bacon bits
• 1 1/2 cups dried lentils
• 1 (1 ounce) can vegetable broth
• 3 -4 cups water (or more broth)
• 4 teaspoons TABASCO(R) brand Chipotle Pepper Sauce (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (or to taste)

1. In large pot, saute onion, garlic and celery in olive oil.
2. When transparent (not browned) add oregano, cumin, parsley and bacon bits.
3. Saute a bit longer, then add vegetable broth and lentils.
4. Stir, then add 2 cups of water (or more broth).
5. Bring to boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes.
6. Uncover, add 1 to 2 more cups of water (use your judgment) and add the chipotle Tabasco, salt and Liquid Smoke.
7. Cook uncovered over low heat for approximately another 20 to 30 minutes.

olive oil, onions, garlic, stalks celery, oregano, cumin, parsley, pepper, bacon bits, dried lentils, vegetable broth, water, pepper sauce, salt, liquid smoke

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/spicy-smoky-soulful-lentil-soup-76250 (may not work)