Ingredients

• 2 russet (baking) potatoes
• 2 medium carrots, cut into 1/4-inch dice
• 2 celery ribs, cut into 1/4-inch dice
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped fine
• 1 medium onion, chopped fine
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 pound lentilles du Puy* (French green lentils), picked over and rinsed (about 2 cups)
• 8 cups low-salt chicken broth
• Garnish: chopped fresh parsley leaves
• *available at specialty foods shops and some supermarkets

Instructions

1. Peel potatoes and cut into 1/4-inch dice. In a 5- to 6-quart heavy kettle cook potatoes, carrots, celery, garlic, and onion in butter over moderate heat, stirring frequently, until onion is softened, about 4 minutes. Add lentils, broth, and salt and pepper to taste and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, 45 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and soup is thickened. Serve soup garnished with parsley.