Vegetarian Lentil Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 onion, chopped.
02 - 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced.
03 - 2 celery stalks, finely chopped.
04 - 1 1/2 cups potatoes, cubed (4-5 small potatoes).
05 - 2 carrots, peeled and cut into coins.
06 - 1/2 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed.
07 - 1/2 teaspoon thyme.
08 - 1/2 teaspoon marjoram.
09 - 6 cups vegetable stock.
10 - 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
11 - 2 tablespoons sour cream.
12 - 2 tablespoons olive oil.
13 - Salt and pepper to taste.

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in large pan over medium heat. Cook onion, garlic and celery until soft.
02 - Add potatoes and carrots with pinch of salt. Cook 1-2 minutes.
03 - Add lentils, herbs, and broth. Bring to boil, then simmer covered 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
04 - Cool 5 minutes. Stir in cheese. Mix sour cream with 1/4 cup soup liquid, then stir back in.
05 - Optional: blend 1/4 of soup for creamier texture. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs.

# Notes:

01 - Rinse lentils before cooking.
02 - Can use any rennet-free cheese.
03 - Adjust liquid for desired thickness.
04 - Can be made vegan by using plant-based dairy.