Carrot, walnut, and red lentil "hummus"

https://www.blissfulbasil.com/carrot-walnut-red-lentil-hummus/
type:hummus
type:dip
type:spread
type:healthy

• 4 medium carrots, washed, ends trimmed, and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 cup uncooked red lentils, thoroughly rinsed
• 2 cups filtered water
• 1/4 cup walnut pieces
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, tough stems removed, plus more for garnishing if desired
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, smashed and peeled
• 3/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• 3/4 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt, plus more for seasoning the carrots
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper or more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped parsley, for garnishing (optional)
• Pepitas, for garnishing (optional)