CURRIED LENTIL,SAUSAGE & ALMOND SOUP

curried lentil,sausage & almond soup

Ingredients:

* 3/4 cup slivered almonds, roasted (roasting instructions)

* 2 teaspoons mild curry powder

* 1 tablespoon olive oil

* 1 cup diced carrot

* 2 teaspoons minced garlic

* 1 (10-ounce) package soy-based meatless sausage

* 1 (15-ounce) can lentils, drained and rinsed

* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

* 3 cups vegetable broth

* 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

* Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat almonds in a large pot, stirring occasionally on high heat until light brown and toasted; remove and set aside. Heat curry powder in pot, tossing frequently, just until fragrant; remove and set aside.

Heat oil in pot; add carrot and garlic. Turn heat to medium-low and cover pot; cook, stirring occasionally, until carrot is nearly soft. Slice sausage into bite-sized pieces and add to pot; stir for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in lentils, chickpeas and broth. Increase heat and bring to a boil; stir in curry powder to taste (not necessarily using all of it). Stir in toasted almonds and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Serves 4.