Add olive oil in a large pot and place over medium high heat. Once oil is hot, add in onion, green pepper, cilantro and garlic. Saute until onions are translucent and green peppers soften, about 3-5 minutes. Bring heat to medium low and add in spices and crushed tomatoes, simmer for a few minutes until it comes together.

Next stir in lentils and coconut milk, reserving 2 tablespoons of coconut milk for drizzling on top once the soup is done. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring soup to boil, then reduce heat and simmer over medium low for 20-30 minutes or until lentils are soft and tender. The soup should thicken up similar to how tomato soup is. (If it gets too thick for your liking, then feel free to add ½ cup-1 cup water or broth.) Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary, adding additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve soup immediately and drizzle in a circle with leftover coconut milk and cilantro. I love to serve mine with naan or pita bread for dipping. Serves 4.