Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   3      Cups          Raw Lentils -- rinsed (1 bag)
   2      Cups          Chicken Broth
   5      Cups          Water
   2      Teaspoons     Salt -- * see note
   2      Teaspoons     Garlic -- minced -or-
     1/2  Teaspoon      Garlic Powder
   1      Medium        Onion -- chopped
   4                    Celery Stalks -- chopped
   4                    Carrots -- chopped
   1      Teaspoon      Black Pepper
   2      Tablespoons   Lemon Juice
   1 1/2  Tablespoons   Molasses -- or brown sugar
   1      Tablespoon    Wine Vinegar -- (or regular)
   1                    Link Polish Sausage (Pre-Cooked) -- cut in small pieces
                        -----Optional-----
   1 1/2  Cups          Fresh Tomatoes -- chopped
   2      Tablespoons   Dry Red Wine

Preparation:

* can use less, especially if broth is salty. Start early (at least 4 hours). Combine all ingredients in a crock pot or large kettle in the order listed. If using a crock pot, set on high power for about three hours, and then turn down to low for the remainder of cooking time. Stir occassionally (every hour or so). If using a kettle, boil everything for about fifteen minutes, and then simmer (lightly) the rest of the time. Stir occassionally --more often than if using a crock pot or lentils may stick to the bottom of the kettle. Cooking time required is about 4 hours total. NOTES: This is one of my husband's variations on lentil soup and one of his favorite things to cook. I have to say it's the best lentil soup I've eaten. It has a uniquely sweet flavor underlying the taste. It makes a large amount so you will have plenty to freeze and serve for another 1-2