Wash hands with soap and water.

Combine rinsed lentils, bay leaf, and 5 cups water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil. Cover tightly and reduce heat. Simmer 30 minutes. Do not drain. After cooking, discard bay leaf.

Chop onion. Combine onions and carrots with 1 cup water. Add to lentils and stir into a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Brown ground beef (if using). Drain and discard fat. Add the meat to the lentil mixture.

Pour honey over entire casserole.

Add herbs if desired.

Cover tightly with foil and bake it for one hour at 350 °F.

Replace 1 cup water with 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 2 cups tomato sauce.