Carrot & Lentil Pate

Fills 6 sandwiches. Wash the lentils, then put in a pan with 500ml (18 fl oz, 2 1/4 cups) cold water. Bring to the boil (keep an eye on it or it'll boil over) then simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the lentils are beginning to soften and break up. If your lentils are old this will take *ages*, so go and buy some new ones. Meanwhile, grate the carrot and chop the onion (or leek) and garlic as finely as possible. When the lentils are at the stage described above, add the carrot, stock cube and dried thyme to the pan. Mix well and continue to cook for 10 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked to your satisfaction, adding more water if it gets too dry. While the lentils are cooking, fry the onion and garlic in the oil, or in vegetable stock if you prefer, until just beginning to brown. When everything is cooked, mix the onions and garlic into the lentils. Mix well, then add lemon juice to taste if using, and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Chill 1 hour before using. Kate L Pugh http://www.earth.li/~kake/cookery/ (adpated from a recipe by Cas Clarke)