Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Soak Masoor Dal

   Wash 1 cup of masoor dal thoroughly with water. Pour enough water to cover the dal and soak it for about 1 hour. After soaking, the dal will plump up and split in the middle.

2. 2.Sauté Aromatics

   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wide kadai. Once hot, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Add 1 large finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns a nice golden color. Then, add 2 large cloves of finely chopped garlic, a piece of finely chopped ginger, and 3 green chilies cut into half. Continue to sauté until the onions are golden.

3. 3.Add Tomatoes and Spice Powders

   Add 3 large chopped tomatoes and mix well. After about a minute, start adding the spice powders: a pinch of hing (asafoetida powder), 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, 2 teaspoons Kashmiri red chilli powder, 2 teaspoons coriander powder, 2 teaspoons cumin powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 2 teaspoons amchur powder. Mix everything well and cook until the tomatoes become mushy and the oil begins to separate.

4. 4.Cook Dal with Water

   Add the soaked masoor dal to the kadai and mix it well with the masala. Pour in 1 litre of hot water. Mix everything well and cook on medium flame for approximately 30 minutes or more, until the dal is completely done and reaches a gravy consistency (not too thick).

5. 5.Finish and Serve

   After 30 minutes, check the dal to ensure it's perfectly cooked. Add 2 teaspoons of garam masala powder and salt as required to adjust the seasoning. Stir in 2 teaspoons of ghee for a rich taste. Finally, add a generous amount of chopped coriander leaves and mix well. Serve this wholesome Masoor Dal Curry hot with rice or roti.