Fiery Curried Black Lentil Tomato Soup

In a large pot, heat butter or oil until melted. Add garlic, ginger, onion and sauté until fragrant. Add cumin seeds and curry leaves or powder. Then add hot pepper. Mix until forms a paste like consistency. Add lentils and stir. Then add crushed tomatoes and water and bring to a boil. Lower to simmer and cook on low for 30 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and lemon juice.