1 3/4 c. lentils
2 c. water
1 bay leaf
2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/8 tsp. oregano, dried
1/8 tsp. sage, dried
1/8 tsp. thyme, dried
2 lg. onions
2 cloves garlic
2 c. fresh or canned tomatoes
2 lg. carrots, sliced
1/2 c. celery, chopped
1/2 c. green pepper, chopped
1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Combine first eleven ingredients in shallow 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Cover tightly and bake 30 to 40 minutes. Uncover and stir in carrots and celery, green pepper and parsley. Bake 40 more minutes, adding some water if it becomes too dry. Remove from oven and sprinkle 3 cups sharp grated cheddar on top. Bake until cheese is melted and serve.