Slow Cooker Lentil Soup

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into small pieces
• 2 celery stalks, cut into small pieces
• 1 white onion, chopped
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 cups dried lentils, rinsed and picked over
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 can Rotel, drained
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• salt & pepper to taste

Spray the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray. Place ingredients in the following order: carrots, celery, onion, garlic, lentils, spices, Rotel, broth.

Cover and cook on high 3 hours. Remove lid and stir well, cover and cook another hour.