A delicious and creamy lentil soup with a blend of aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy meal.
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Using extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity flavor to the base of the soup.
Add the chopped garlic and diced onion to the saucepan and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make it bitter.
Stir in the turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and cumin, cooking for 1 minute to release their aromas.
Toasting the spices enhances their flavors and adds depth to the soup.
Add the diced tomatoes, red lentils, lemon juice, and coconut milk to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
Rinse the lentils before adding to remove any debris and improve texture.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Adjust the seasoning gradually to suit your taste preferences.