Ingredients for 6 servings:
1. 1 1/2 cups red lentils, rinsed and drained
2. 7 cups water
3. 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
4. 6 whole cloves, tied in a bouquet garni (cheesecloth)
5. 2 slices peeled fresh ginger
6. 1 clove garlic, peeled
7. 3 -4 teaspoons salt, more to taste
8. fresh ground pepper, to taste
9. 2 -3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, more,to taste
10. 1/2 cup small cubes of unsweetened bread (for croutons)
11. olive oil, for sauteing bread croutons
12. lime wedge
Directions:
1. Put the lentils, water, turmeric, cloves, ginger and garlic into a large pot and simmer, partially covered, until lentils become soft, 45 minutes to an hour, or use a pressure cooker to reduce the cooking time.
2. Remove the cloves (in the bouquet garni) and puree the soup with a hand blender, or in a blender.
3. Season with salt, pepper and lime juice, to taste.
4. Saute the bread cubes in a bit of olive oil until slightly browned and crisped and drain.
5. Serve the soup with the bread croutons and lime wedges, on the side.
6. Enjoy!
Enjoy your meal!