Stir in the garlic and curry powder and cook for a minute, then add the tomatoes and coconut milk, stir well and bring to the boil. Stir in the lentils and chickpeas and return to a simmer.
This curried lentil soup recipe from chef and cookbook ... Ottolenghi calls for Japanese S&B curry powder, which can be considered mild to medium in heat, but you can use any blend you like ...
Sambar is a lentil-based vegetable curry or stew that has to be one of the most commonly eaten dishes in India — it was served at every place we went. Some versions add a bit of coconut milk to it.