Ingredients:
4 Bacon slices diced
2 Medium onions sliced
2 Medium carrots sliced
1 Cup sliced celery
1 16 ounce package lentils
1 Ham bone
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon thyme
2 Bay leaves
8 Cups water
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
Salt to taste

Method:
In a 5-quart Dutch oven or large saucepan over medium- high heat fry bacon until lightly browned. Push to side of pan.
Add onions, carrot and celery and over medium heat, cook until onions are tender, about 5 minutes.
Add ham bone, lentils, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, hot water and 2 teaspoons salt.
Cover and simmer over low heat for 1 hour or until lentils are tender. Discard bay leaves.
Remove ham bone to cutting board and cut off any meat, cut into small pieces.
Add meat, lemon juice and salt to taste. Serve hot.

Fihalhohi island resort / Club faru
Nimal Kithsiri
Executive Chef