My Old Stand by Mitzvah Lentil Soup

1. Simmer, covered, 1 hour: 2 lbs lentils

10 cups water w. salt

2. saute in olive oil: 2 tsp minced garlic

1 c chopped onion; 1 c chopped celery ; 1 c chopped carrots; 1 c chopped tomatoes

1/2 c sesame seeds

1 grated lemon peel

2 bay leaves, fresh basil to taste

3.mix 1 and 2 and add 2 tbl molasses

2 tbl lemon juice

3 tbl vermouth