Lentil-Apple Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons oil
1 1/2 cups thinly sliced leeks (white and light green parts only; about 2 medium, sliced and thoroughly rinsed)
6 cups water
2 cups unsweetened apple juice
1 1/2 cups lentils, rinsed
3 large celery ribs, with leaves
1 onion, studded with
6 whole cloves
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples (cooking apples preferred)
1 teaspoon salt (to taste)

Preparation

In a large pot, heat oil; saute lleks until tender; add water and apple juice; bring to a boil.
Stir in lentils, celery, onion, and bay leaf; return to a boil; then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes.
Stir in apple, and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes more; season to taste with salt.
Discard celery, onion, and bay leaf before serving.