the mixture begins to brown.
add a cup of small red lentils and stir for a minute or so before adding three cups of water, the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. bring to boil, then turn the heat down very low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
add chopped tomatoes, and simmer another 10 minutes, until thick. the lentils should be soft and the consistency just liquid enough to pour. add coconut milk and lemon juice. stir through, and remove from heat. 