Red Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 40 ml olive oil
• 1 large brown onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 medium carrot, coarsely chopped
• 1 stick celery, coarsely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried chili pepper flake
• 40 ml tomato paste
• 1 cup red lentil
• 1 1/2 liters water
• 1 bunch english spinach, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
• lemon wedge, to serve (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Cook onion and garlic until soft, then add carrot and celery and cook until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

2. 2

   Add spices and chili and cook, stirring, until fragrant. Add tomato paste and lentils, mix well, and cook, stirring, about 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Add water and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 20 minutes or until lentils are soft.

4. 4

   Remove from heat. Add spinach and mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with lemon wedges if desired, crusty bread and salad.