Lentil soup

1/2 cup Sitia Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 lb lentils (brown)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 - 3 finely chopped garlic cloves
1 tablespoon tomato paste (or 3 ripe grated tomatoes)
3 bay leaves
2 tablespoons vinegar
salt and pepper

Place lentils in a pot with enough water to cover them and boil for 5 - 6 minutes, then drain them. Brown onion in olive oil, add lentils, garlic, tomato paste diluted in 1 cup water (or just the tomatoes), bay leaves, salt, pepper and water to cover. Boil the lentils until cooked which will take about half an hour. Add vinegar, boil for 5 more minutes and then serve.