Instructions: In a kettle combine the lentils, the broth, the celery, the carrots, the tomatoes, the oil, the onion, the parsley, the pancetta, the garlic, the salt, the pepper, and 7 cups water, bring the mixture to a boil and simmer

it, covered, skimming the froth, for 1 1/2 hours. Just before serving discard the pancetta if desired and stir in the lemon juice. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle it with the Parmesan.

Makes about 16 cups, serving 8.

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