Warming Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup

A gently spiced warming soup, perfect for chilly days!

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 2 tsp cumin seeds

• Pinch of dried chilli flakes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 600g/1lb carrots, washed and coarsely grated. (no need to peel)

• 140g/5oz split red lentils

• 1 litre hot veg stock

• 125ml / 4fl oz milk

Natural yoghurt and warm crusty bread, or naan bread to serve.

Method

1. Heat a large saucepan and dry fry the cumin seeds and chilli flakes for a minute, or until they start to jump around the pan and release their aromas.

2. Scoop out about half of the seeds and set aside.

3. Add the oil, carrot, lentils, stock and milk to pan and bring to the boil.

4. Simmer for 15 mins, until the lentils have swollen and softened.

5. Blend the soup until smooth (or leave a little chunky if preferred).

6. Season and serve with a dollop of yoghurt, a sprinkling of the reserved spices and bread.