Step 1

In a large heavy bottom pot or dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add onion, carrot, beets and celery, and saute for 5 minutes, until slightly softened.

Step 2

Turn heat to medium, add garlic and herbs and sauté for 2 more minutes. Add lentils, stock and salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover with lid, and turn heat to low, maintaining a gentle simmer. Simmer for 25 minutes or until lentils are just tender.

Step 3

Add the beet juice, taste for salt, add more if necessary, and continue simmering on low for 10-15 more minutes or until tender. If you feel there is too much liquid for your liking, keep the lid off, and increase the heat, letting it reduce. ( I like this braise slightly juicy, personally, so I just replace the lid.)

Step 4

Stir in the balsamic vinegar and taste again, adjusting if necessary.

Step 5

Serve with optional browned butter or goat cheese crumbles. If going vegan, a little drizzle of olive oil is nice.

Step 6

Serve as vegan main dish or as a side dish to fish, chicken or meat.