– Add oil to a large pot and heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and carrots and cook for 8-10 minutes or until softened. Stir often to keep the vegetables from burning.
– Add spices, salt and pepper. Stir for about 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, lentils, broth, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.– Bring to a gentle boil. Scoop sway the frothy scum that forms on the surface with a spoon.
– Cover pot and simmer over medium low heat for 35-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.– Remove bay leaves before serving.– Top with hot cooked jasmine rice and a squeeze of lemon or lime, if desired.