Curried Lentil and Sausage Soup with Toasted Almonds

Name: Curried Lentil and Sausage Soup with Toasted Almonds
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 1-2 large carrots, peeled and small diced; 1-2 stalks celery, small diced; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed and picked over; 1 can white beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1/2 pound precooked chicken sausage, diced; 1/3 - 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Silvered almonds, toasted, for garnish; Chopped cilantro, for garnish