Glowing Spiced Lentil Soup

• 1 1/2 tbs extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups diced onion (1 large)
• 2 lg. garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 3/4 cup uncooked red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper, to taste
• 1 (5-ounce) pkg. baby spinach, chopped
• 2 tsp (10 mL) fresh lime juice, or more to taste

Directions:

1. In a large pot, add the oil, onion, and garlic. Add a pinch of salt, stir, and sauté over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion softens.
2. Stir in the turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom until combined. Continue cooking for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), entire can of coconut milk, red lentils, broth, salt, and plenty of pepper. Add red pepper flakes or cayenne, if desired, to taste. Stir to combine. Increase heat to high and bring to a low boil.
4. Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium-high, and simmer, uncovered, for about 18 to 22 minutes, until the lentils are fluffy and tender.
5. Turn off the heat and stir in the spinach until wilted. Add the lime juice to taste. Taste and add more salt and pepper, if desired.
6. Ladle into bowls and serve with toasted bread and lime wedges.