Cracked Wheat-Lentil Casserole

Step 1: Combine 4 cups tomato juice, lentils, and cracked wheat in a 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish; cover tightly, and let stand at room temperature for 6 to 8 hours. Bake lentil mixture at 300° for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, stirring to crumble meat. Add chopped onion, and cook over medium-high heat until onion is tender; drain.

Step 3: Add the ground beef mixture, remaining 2 cups tomato juice, salt, chili powder, and oregano to the lentil mixture in the baking dish; stirring well. Cover tightly, and bake at 300° for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Remove cover, and bake an additional 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.