Rinse lentils, place them to soak and set aside.

In pan add water, bring to boil, add onion, carrot, celery and potato, 2 cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of salt. Medium heat uncovered for 15 mins.

Drain and add lentils and bring to boil again. Reduce heat to simmer and cover and cook for 60 mins.

Saute in a little olive oil remaining 2 cloves of garlic with spices, always stirring, cook but do not burn.

Once lentils are cooked and coming apart, turn off heat, add spice mixture, lemon juice and cilantro. Blend and add salt and hot pepper as necessary.