Baked Lentils

1 3/4 cups lentils, not cooked
2 1/4 cups water
2 onions, chopped
2 cups diced tomatoes
2 carrots, sliced
1/2 cup celery, sliced (optional)
1 green pepper, chopped (optional)
pepper, to taste [again I use Melange]
1/8 tsp. marjoram
1/8 tsp. sage
1/8 tsp. thyme
1 bay leaf
2 tsp. chopped parsley
[opt: up to 1 tsp salt depending on salt allowed note sub in more herbs if not using to taste]
You could also add smoked peppers

Preheat oven to 375° F. Pam a baking dish [with cover] at least 9 by 13 and combine lentils, water, spices, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Then cover tightly and bake for 30 minutes.

Stir in carrots and celery and bake, covered, for another 40 minutes then tir in optional green pepper and parsley. I usually let bake for a few minutes more but you don't have to.

serves 4