1 pkg. dried lentil beans
1 can stewed tomatoes, mashed, if desired
1 onion, minced
1 piece smoked ham
3 celery spears, chopped
6 to 8 carrots, chopped
1 handful med. size barley
Italian seasoning
Celery seed
Salt & pepper to taste

Place all ingredients into a 5 to 6 quart pot. Fill with water (to 2 inches from top). Cover. Bring to a boil, then simmer 3 to 5 hours. Just before serving remove meat, cut into bite size pieces and return to soup.

NOTE: I put all into the crock pot fill with water and cook, covered, on High all day. Served with muffins and/or bread sticks. Good!