The Soup Diva

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced (1/2 cup)
• 2 carrots, diced or shredded (1/2 cup)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (1 tsp)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 qt vegetable or other light broth
• 1 cup red lentils
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Pinch or dash of red pepper or hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Heat oil on medium-high and saute onions until softened; add garlic and carrots, stirring until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste, then all other ingredients except lemon juice. Heat until bubbling and reduce to medium-low. Cover and let simmer until lentils are soft (30-60 minutes). Blend with immersion blender to desired smoothness; stir in lemon juice and serve with bread and a dollop of yogurt if desired.