Soak the lentils in abundant water for at least two hours. Drain water.Boil lentils in clear water for 15 minutes over medium heat. Sieve the lentils until all the water has been drained. Set aside water and lentils.
Step 2: Sauteing the vegetables
In a pot, heat the oil, and add the onion, and carrot. Cook and stir until the onion becomes translucent. Add the potatoes, bell pepper, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, 1½ teaspoons salt, paprika, and curry powder.Cook and stir over medium heat for 2 minutes.
Step 3: Adding lentils
Add the lentils (without the water) and cook and stir for a minute.Add the broth and 2 cups of the water you had set aside, and stir.
Step 4: Simmering
Cover and simmer over low heat until all the ingredients are cooked through. Add more water as it becomes necessary (use clear water if you run out of water from boiling the lentils)Remove the sprigs and bay leaf. Add cilantro and season with salt and black pepper to taste.