In a large pot, heat oil over high heat until hot and shimmiering. Add onion and garlic, and saute until golden, about 4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, cumin, salt, black pepper, and chili powder or cayenne, and saute for 2 minutes longer. Add broth, water, lentils, and carrot. Bring to a simmer, then partially cover pot and turn heat to medium-low. Simmer until lentils are soft, about 30 minutes. Taste and add salt if necessary.

Using an immersion or regular blender or a food processor, puree half the soup then add it back to pot. Soup should be somewhat chunky. Stir in lemon juice and cilantro.

1 Serving = 1 cup