Indian-style Red Lentils with Zucchini

1 cup red lentils, washed
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
2-4 tablespoons cooking oil
4 whole cardamom pods (or ¼ teaspoon ground)
1 inch cinnamon stick (or 1 teaspoon ground)
2 bay leaves
½ teaspoon ground cumin (or whole seeds)
1-2 cups finely chopped onion
2 teaspoons fresh ginger root, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium zucchini, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
¼+ teaspoon cayenne powder
 

Bring 4 cups vegetable broth or water (or a combo) and lentils to boil.  Skim foam, add turmeric, and cook until tender, about 45 mins.  Heat oil on medium in skillet, add cardamom, cinnamon, bay, cumin.  Stir, add onions, & cook 15 min, stirring.  Add the rest of the ingredients, ½ cup water, and simmer until zuke is tender, about 10 minutes.  Combine with lentils & check salt.