1 lb. lentils
2 qts. cold water
1 med. onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 c. vegetable oil
1 (1 lb. 12 oz.) can Italian plum tomatoes
2 bay leaves

Wash lentils; drain well. Combine with water, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and oil in a large kettle. Bring to boiling. Add tomatoes and bay leaves. Lower heat; cover and simmer for 45 minutes or until lentils are tender. Serve with lemon juice or wine vinegar, if you wish.