Step 1

Heat 2 Tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Sauté the onion and garlic until soft, about 2 minutes then add the spices and continue to sauté about 4 minutes. Add the carrots and sauté until carrots are tender, about 7-8 minutes. Add the celery and satue another 2 minutes.

Step 3

Add the vegetable broth and lentils and stir to combine. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Step 4

Add lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5

Use an immersion blender and blend the soup to your liking.

Step 6

Serve the soup with fresh cilantro, crushed red pepper and fresh lemon juice.