Red Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

1. 2 tbs olive oil
2. 1 leek (white part only), sliced thinly
3. 2 tsp cumin
4. 1 ½ cups red lentils
5. 2 carrots, peeled and diced 
6. 6 cups water  (you can use stock if preferred)
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Using a Creuset pot, or large saucepan add the olive oil, then the leek to saute until softened. Add the carrots and saute until softened.  Add water, then pour in the lentils, add the cumin and season to taste. 
2. Bring to the boil, then placing the lid on the saucepan reduce the heat to a simmer and allow to cook for 25 minutes. 
3. Depending on the consistency of soup you desire, either transfer half, or for a more creamy soup, all, into a blender (you can use a hand blender), until pureed.
4. Serve with a dollop of cream and some fresh flat parsley.