Simply Souperlicious – Vegetarian Black Lentil, Spinach and Chickpea Soup

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb of carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup Beluga (black) lentils
• 5 button mushrooms
• 1 bunch of spinach
• 1 can of chickpeas
• 5 cup(s) vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 red onion
• 1 leek
• 1 shallot (raw), chopped
• 1 garlic clove, chopped
• 1 sprig thyme
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon spicy paprika
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 squeeze lemon
• Pinch salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro leaves for garnish