This simple and delicious lentil soup was served to us at the Nazareth Village in Israel. It was prepared by Mary who fed us each day "in the Spirit of the First Century"! I made it yesterday for our lunch as we anticipated the big storm. Ingredients: 2 Cups lentils 4 Cups water (I added a bit more near end of cooking) 1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 3 spring onions - chopped (I used green onions) 2 cloves garlic - minced 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. cumin 1 tsp. salt or to taste Black pepper to taste Mix together and simmer on low for 1-2 hrs. It was so amazing to spend a few days "in the first century" village...... having the opportunity to help with the Olive Harvest! We felt like we really were back in the time of Jesus, plucking olives from the ancient trees! There is even an authentic ancient Olive press there, not to mention a real donkey that obediently turns the large pressing stone! Fellow "villagers" If you want to visit the Nazareth Village's web site you will see the video clip called Olive Harvest 2012 of us bringing in the harvest of the day led by David theShepherd!! Hallelujah!!!