Sweet Potato & Lentil Soup

(recipe from Pure Ella via Kris Carr)

2 Tbsp. coconut oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 1/2 cups red split lentils, rinsed
6-8 cups of water
2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tsp. ground cumin seeds
1 tsp. turmeric powder
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
1 Tbsp. sea salt (I used 1 tsp.)
Fresh ground pepper, to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, to taste

Heat the oil over medium heat in a large soup pot.  Add the onion and cook until it softens, about 5 minutes.  Add the garlic and carrots and cook, stirring for a few minutes.  Add the lentils, water, sweet potatoes, spices and seasoning.  Stir and bring to a boil; reduce the heat, cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Taste and adjust the seasoning.  Stir in the cilantro or parsley just before serving.