Easy Ham and Lentil Soup

2 Tbsp canola oil (30 mL)

1 onion, diced (1)

2 stalks celery, diced (2)

2 carrots, diced (2)

2 cloves garlic, minced (2)

3 Tbsp tomato paste (45 mL)

1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves (2 mL)

1/4 tsp ground cloves (1 mL)

1 - 19oz can lentils, drained and rinsed

7 oz black forest ham, diced (200 g)

5 cups no-salt added vegetable broth (1250 mL)
1. In a large pot, add canola oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, carrots and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes or until vegetables begin to soften.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, lentils and black forest ham. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer covered for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender.