Golden Lentil Barley Soup

extra-virgin olive oil or refined coconut oil

medium yellow or white onion (finely chopped)

garlic (minced)

inch ginger root (minced or grated)

inch fresh turmeric root (minced or grated (or use 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric))

carrots (peeled and diced or thinly sliced)

ground cumin (heaping)

ground coriander (heaping)

and 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

dry red lentils (rinsed)

dry pearl barley (rinsed several times in hot water)

tomato paste

salt (scant (plus more to taste))

ground black pepper (to taste (I used just a pinch))

loosely-packed fresh baby spinach leaves ((or more, if you like - up to 6 ounces))

(optional) fresh lemon juice, for serving