Mum's Lentil Soup

Soup's are one of the easiest things to make and something my mum does very well. She has taught me how to make many and this one always goes down well! What a talent to be given!

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   Please note the ingredients are to provide a rough idea as we never measure anything in our house - and it depends on how may you are feeding and the size of your pan!!
   
   Place the gammon joint in a large pan and cover with plenty of water, bring to the boil. Taste the water, it may be too salty in which case you may need to drain and the add fresh water and bring to the boil again. This is particularly the case with smoked gammon. Double boliing should also help remove any excess fat and reduce the need to skim the top.
   
   Once this has begun to boil, lower the heat and simmer for approx 30 mins. At this point add the onions and the lentils. Bring back to the boil and then simmer until the lentils start to soften. Then add the grated carrots and sweet. You do not have to use swede but it adds a sweetness and is as good way to use the left over bits!
   
   Let this simmer for about 20 minutes then remove the gammon. This can then be used as cold meat, served with potates and veg as the second course or shredded and added to the soup.
   
   Allow the soup to simmer for another 20mins until the lentils have the lentils have swollen and thickened the soup. Then serve. Tastes better the longer you leave it, or even the next day!