Lentil Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

4 1/2 c. cooked ham
3 large chopped onions
2 cloves garlic
1 1/2 lb. dry lentils
1 (16 oz.) can tomatoes
1 lb. cooked, sliced Polish sausage
1 Tbsp. cooking oil
3 c. celery, chopped with leaves
1/2 tsp. hot pepper sauce

Preparation

In Dutch oven, cook ham, sausage, onion and garlic in oil until onion is tender, but not brown.
Drain grease.
Stir in lentils, celery and 3 quarts of water.
Bring to boil; reduce heat.
Simmer, covered, for 2 to 3 hours or until lentils are tender.
Stir in tomatoes and hot sauce.
Simmer, uncovered, about 30 minutes more or to desired consistency.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.