Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Wash the Lentils

   Place 1 cup of red lentils in a pot. Add water, wash by hand, and drain. Repeat this process a couple of times until the water runs clear.

2. 2.Cook the Lentils

   Add 2.5 cups of water to the washed lentils in the pot. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Add about 1 teaspoon of cooking oil on top without stirring. Place the pot on a low to medium-low fire and let it cook uncovered until thoroughly cooked and homogeneous (about 15-20 minutes). Stir occasionally and add more water if it dries out.

3. 3.Prepare the Garnish Ingredients

   Finely chop 1 medium onion. Peel and finely chop a 1-inch piece of ginger. Deseed and finely chop half of a green chili (adjust to taste). Wash and chop 1/4 cup of cilantro, reserving a small amount for final garnishing.

4. 4.Cook the Garnish

   Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a separate pan over medium heat until it reaches a heating point. Add 1.5 teaspoons of whole cumin seeds and stir until they start to sizzle and release their aroma (about 30 seconds). Add the chopped ginger and green chili and sauté for a couple of seconds. Then add the chopped onions and sauté until they are slightly brown, not burnt (about 5-7 minutes).

5. 5.Combine Dal and Garnish

   Once the dal is cooked and homogeneous, add the cooked garnish mixture (sautéed onions, ginger, green chili, and cumin) to the dal. Stir in 1.5 teaspoons of salt (or to taste) and most of the chopped cilantro. Stir well to combine the flavors.

6. 6.Serve the Dal

   Traditionally, dal is served over rice. Ladle the dal over cooked rice and garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro. Serve hot with a vegetable and salad.