Vegan Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.