Lentils with Thyme

• Recipe by Mark Gottwald

Ingredients

1. 1 pound lentils, picked over and rinsed
2. 8 cups water
3. 1 garlic clove, minced
4. 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped thyme
5. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
6. 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
7. 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
8. 1 medium onion, finely chopped
9. 1 large celery rib, finely chopped
10. Salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the lentils with the water, garlic and 1 tablespoon of the thyme and bring to a boil. Cover partially and simmer the lentils over low heat until tender, about 45 minutes. Drain and transfer to a bowl to cool.
2. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, melt the butter in the olive oil. Add the carrots, onion and celery and cook over moderate heat until tender. Season with salt and pepper and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of thyme. Stir the vegetables into the lentils and season with salt and pepper. Serve at room temperature.