1 large, peeled

Wash the lentils, then put them into a large saucepan with the stock or water, onion, garlic, and cumin. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the lentils are cooked. With a blender or a food processor (I use a blender), puree the soup until smooth. This step may need to be done in batches.
Reheat the soup gently and add seasonings to taste. If the soup is too thick for your liking, thin it down with a little water or milk.
This soup is a wonderful, tasty treat year-round, especially with some crusty bread.
Note:  This soup freezes and reheats quite well.