The Veggie Meal (Lentil Soup and Homemade Bread)

Okay this is so cheap and veggie friendly and was a huge hit with my meat eating friends even! The toppings at the end gives the feel of a meaty chili without the time, money, or extra calories. :) I hope you guys enjoy this as much as I did!

First we are going to start our bread!

In a large bowl place 3 Cups of Flower, 1 package of Dry Active Yeast, 2 tbls Honey, 1 tsp Salt, 1 1/4 Cup Water. Stir the mixture until it comes together in a ball. Flour your counter and knead the dough for three minutes until the mixture is smooth and comes together well. Wash bowl and oil the inside. Place dough ball in bowl and roll in oil until completely covered. Leave dough in warm area of kitchen for an hour to rise.

*Start your soup!*

Knock dough down and knead again shape in loaf shape. You can use a load pan but I just use a cookie sheet and shape the dough into a log. Cover dough and let rise for another 30 minutes. Cut slits (1/8) into the top of the bread before throwing into your oven. Let cook until bread is brown and crusty on the outside and sounds hallow when you thump with your finger.

Time For the Soup!

In a large pot place on medium high heat with a little oil in the bottom place 2 cups Carrots diced. Add  1 tbls Salt. Once in the pot and you can hear a sizzle turn the heat down to medium and stir frequently until the veggies are soft. If you're in a bit of a hurry cutting your carrots into smaller pieces will cut down the cooking time overall. Add 2 cups of Lentils and 1 cup frozen Black Eyed Peas (I like the green ones!) stir to combine. Add 6 cups of Chicken Stock. Add 1 tbls of Dried Onion, Cumin, Garlic Powder, and Pepper. 2 tbls of Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce and 1 small can of Tomato Puree. Stir to combine and cover mixture for 45 minutes. I like to dice up and serve this with Turkey Bacon and Cilantro Citrus Yogurt Sauce on Top!

Cilantro Citrus Yogurt Sauce
Combine 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt with 1 tbls Chopped Cilantro, Lime and Lemon Juice.