2 cups red lentil, washed
5 cups filtered water, divided
2 inch piece kombu
1 stalk lemongrass, split and cut in half, optional
2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil
1 large onion, diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 inch piece ginger, peeled and minced
1 to 2 teaspoon minced fresh red chili or pinch dried red chili flakes
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 ½ teaspoons dry turmeric or 1 tablespoon grated fresh turmeric
2 tablespoons minced cilantro stems, leaves chopped and reserved
2 medium carrots, diced
3 cups cubed butternut squash ( ¾ inch cube)
1 13.5oz can coconut milk, divided