2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 large onion, chopped small

3 to 6 cloves garlic, minced

3 to 4 tablespoons ginger, grated or finely diced

3 cups water

3 to 4 carrots, sliced

1 pound French lentils

6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

salt and pepper to taste

grated Gruyere cheese for serving

cooked couscous for serving