Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove impurities and drain them.
Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, garlic, green pepper and carrots. Sauté until tender.
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they soften.
Add the drained lentils to the pot and mix well with the vegetables.
Pour the vegetable broth or water into the pot and add the bay leaf, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary to obtain the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning to your personal taste.
Once ready, remove the bay leaf and serve the lentils with hot vegetables.
Enjoy this nutritious and comforting dish!
