Step 1

In a large Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Stir in the carrots, garlic, celery, and onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are soft and lightly golden, 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 2

Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring, until the tomato paste darkens in color, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the vegetable broth and lentils and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the lentils are tender, 35 to 40 minutes.

Step 3

Remove about 3 cups of the soup and place in a blender. Remove the center part of the blender lid and cover with a towel to allow steam to escape. Blend until almost smooth and then return it to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to the desired consistency.

Step 4

Stir in the parsley and vinegar. Serve sprinkled with more parsley.