In a heavy-bottomed soup pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and spices and sauté for a few minutes. Then add onions, celery and carrots and continue to sauté until soft, 8 to 12 minutes.
Rinse and drain lentils. Add lentils and veggie broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until lentils are tender and soup has thickened, about 40 minutes.
Add kale, red wine vinegar and black pepper, continue to simmer for another 10 mins, serve immediately.