Sweaters = Soup Time

It was the first afternoon of many to come where my lap was full of chilly cats. Time to dig out the winter clothes, figure out where I put all my toe socks and get my recipe book out. It's been so hot in my ancient house, I have probably only turned on the oven three times since April and I'm sure Bart is getting tired of salads and sandwiches.

He did something really nice for me while I was lampooning around Las Vegas, I came home to a spruced up back yard... compliments of my lovely husband and Tiff and Jason. Thanks everyone, it looks lovely:

So the soup nazi giveth...

Bart's Favorite Dal Shorva

prep: 15 min, cook: 45 min

1-1/2 cups red lentils, rinsed

2 quarts veggie stock

1-1/2 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon cayenne
1-1/2 teaspoon garam masala

1-1/2 teaspoon hot, madras or japanese curry powder

2 teaspoons mustard seeds

1 teaspoon olive oil

 Cover lentils in stock in a 3-quart soup pot, bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer over low heat. Add turmeric, cumin, cayenne, curry, garam masala and simmer, uncovered for 30 minutes until the lentils are soft and the stock has reduced to desired consistency. In a small skillet, heat oil and saute mustard seeds until color barely changes - they'll burn fast! Add to soup and serve or simmer 15 mins longer for thicker dal and spoon over rice. Serves 4-6, but I usually double and freeze the remainder.