Saute in large pot, 1 T olive oil and add in chopped onions, celery, garlic paste( I like a lot of garlic).
Add chopped carrots, zucchini, chicken broth, jalapeno, lentils, and dried herbs. The quantity of herbs is to taste, but do not be afraid of using at least 1 tsp per herb(less of sage though-use just a pinch of sage).
Let this mixture come to a boil,and then simmer for hours. I put my pot together at noon, and it remained on low til 5 pm.
But, I have to say, the best part of the meal to me, was the biscuits.Oh my God they were good. A warm bite of cheesy goodness! Please, please-do try these!