In a pan over moderate heat, cook onions till soft & translucent, about 8 minutes.
Add garlic, cook for 2 minutes more.
Add cinnamon stick, ground spices, coriander stalks & a big pinch of salt, cook for 3 minutes more, maybe with a splash more oil to get things nice & sticky.
Add drained lentils, top up with fresh water about 2cm higher than ingredients in pan, bring to boil, skim off any froth, then simmer over moderate heat for around 30 minutes, until lentil is tender.
Blend with the coriander leaves & lemon juice, check seasoning, it likes a bit of salt!
Serve with a big spoon of yogurt, chilli flakes, sumac if you have any, and a big glug of olive oil (or browned butter).
