Happy happy new year to all of you!

Don’t forget to make lentils today! This is a tradition we have, on the first day of the year, you eat lentils. They are supposed to bring you lots happiness , health and money.The lentils are not just delicious, but also a source of protein and minerals, so very good for you as well.

I am using the small green ones, the ‘ Lentille de Puis’

for 4 people
• 500gr green lentils
• 2 leeks thinly, sliced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 young celery stalks, sliced
• 2 turnips, diced
• 3 potatoes diced
• 1/2 a small butternut pumpkin, diced
• fresh sage, Italian parsley, bay leaf
• 1 chili (optional)
• 1 to 1 1/2 litres of strong chicken stock

• in a little butter and oil cook the leeks until soft and sweet
• add all the other vegetables and herbs
• cook for a few more minutes

• add the chicken stock and the lentils
• cook for about 20 minutes on low heat or until the lentils are just soft
• stirring from time to time
• taste for seasoning

• once the lentils are cooked, I love to mix through
• two big handfuls of fresh baby spinach
• let them just wilt with the heat
• add 2 tablespoons of virgin olive oil

• if you want your meal to be a little more substantial you can serve a few slices of leg ham with the lentils