1 cup red lentils, picked over and rinsed
2 T olive oil
1 large white onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, chopped, pressed, or minced
1 T tomato paste
1 t ground cumin
1/3 t salt
1/4 t black pepper
1/8 t chili powder (as mild or spicy as you like)
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1 quart vegetable broth (or any broth you prefer)
2 cups water
Lemon juice (optional)