Energy Boosting Lentil Soup

Holly is my most special, fabulous, wonderful yoga teacher. She makes me do things I never thought I could do. And then she nestles me up into supported shivasana that connects me to the love of the whole universe. I love Holly. We've been through a lot together and both know that everything is yoga. Last week, instead of doing handstands she made soup for my girls and me, and it was divine. As she stirred the soup she chanted the invocation to Ganesha and we all sat transfixed, feeling like we were all good witches watching a magical potion coming to life. And so it did!

Especially magical is that it is quick, easy, and so yummy that all of us ate every last drop--even the littlest good witch. She also brought some basmati rice and Naan along, but those were just a little added bonus. This soup is the main thing, and it's delicious!

• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 whole onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper

Cook these three ingredients together in a heavy soup pot on low to medium heat, stirring until the onions are brown and melted (about 10 minutes).

• 1 cup bulgur
• 1 cup red lentils
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 cup fresh chopped dill
• 1 cup fresh chopped cilantro

Stir in these ingredients and mix until it "glistens."

• 6 cups water
• 3 teaspoons "better than bouillon" vegetarian chicken paste

• 1 can garbanzo beans
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed

• 1 single-serving size plain yogurt (or ½ cup)

As Holly says, dill and cilantro are cleansing. Bulgur is clearing. Lentils are easy to digest. And Ganesha is the remover of all obstacles. This soup is "so nourishing on every level." And she is right.

Namaste, Holly!

For more from Maria Rodale, go to www.mariasfarmcountrykitchen.com