Rinse lentils and drain.

Add lentils to a saucepan with the water and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

Remove from heat and strain mixture.

Return to pot and puree with an immersion hand blender. If you don't have a hand blender, you can use a food processor or blender. (I'd be lost without my hand blender!)

Add cumin, salt, and pepper and cook over medium heat.

Brown the onion in oil and add to the lentil mixture, cooking for just 5 minutes.

Sprinkle stew with chopped parsley. Optional: top with croutons. Serve warm.