Spiced Red Lentil Soup

2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, minced
4 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon garam masala
3 cups water
1 1/4 cups red lentils, picked over, and rinsed
1 can coconut milk (NOT cream of coconut)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro minced
3 plum tomatoes chopped medium
Salt
Pepper

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and 1 teaspoon salt and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and garam masala and cook until fragrant. Stir in the water, lentils, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, partially cover, and cook until the lentils break down to form a thick puree, 20-30 minutes. Stir in the cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. When serving sprinkle tomatoes into each bowl and pour soup over the top.