Lemon Curry Lentil Soup

1 tbsp avocado oil
1 onion chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
2 carrots chopped
2 stalks celery chopped
4 cups vegetable soup stock
1 cup red lentil rinsed well
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp curry powder
pinch cayenne (optional)
1 tbsp lemon zest
juice of half large lemon
salt and pepper to taste
Fresh sprouts or herbs to garnish

Heat oil in a soup pot, sautee onion and garlic until soft.  Add carrots, celery and spices.  Stir frequently while cooking for 3 minutes.  Add lentils and stock.  Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-30 minutes until lentils are well cooked.  Add lemon zest and juice.  Garnish with sprouts and herbs.