Hearty Lentil and Potato Soup

Chopped celery and carrots should be added. To soften the veggies, sauté them for 5 minutes while stirring periodically.
Then, coat the lentils and cubed potatoes with the oil and vegetable combination, and stir in the rinsed lentils.
During the winter Toss in the bay leaf, oregano, and thyme before adding the broth. Add the veggie broth and mix well. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Simmer: Once the soup is boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Simmer, covered, for 30–35 minutes, or until potatoes and lentils are soft.
Change the seasoning: Pull the bay leaf out. Verify the soup's flavor by tasting it. Mash a few of the lentils and potatoes in the saucepan using a potato masher for a thicker consistency if you want.
To serve, spoon the soup into individual bowls and top with chopped parsley. If preferred, add an additional grind of black pepper.