Instructions

  1. In a 3-quart saucepan, saute the onion and garlic in oil until tender.
  2. Add water and bay leaf; bring to a boil.
  3. Stir in lentils and return to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  5. Stir in tomatoes, breaking them up; add wine, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper.
  6. Bring stew to a boil; then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes; add zucchini and simmer 15 minutes more.
  7. Discard bay leaf before serving.
  8. Serve over grilled slices of polenta or steamed brown rice, if desired.