Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Chop Onion

   Chop 1 onion into small pieces.

2. 2.Sauté Onion

   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent and lightly golden.

3. 3.Add Aromatics and Spices

   Add 1 tablespoon of ginger paste, 1 tablespoon of crushed garlic, and 2-3 teaspoons of curry powder to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

4. 4.Dice Tomatoes

   Dice 3 tomatoes into small pieces.

5. 5.Cook Tomatoes

   Add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and break down, about 5-7 minutes.

6. 6.Rinse Lentils

   Rinse 1 1/3 cups of red/orange lentils under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain thoroughly.

7. 7.Combine and Season

   Add the rinsed and drained lentils to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of water or stock. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. 8.Bring to a Boil

   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

9. 9.Simmer Dal

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for about 25 minutes.

10. 10.Stir During Simmering

    During the simmering process, open the lid every 4-5 minutes and stir the dal to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

11. 11.Chop Coriander

    While the dal is cooking, finely chop fresh coriander.

12. 12.Finish with Coriander

    After 25 minutes, turn off the heat. Add the chopped coriander to the dal and stir well to combine.

13. 13.Serve

    Serve the hot dal in a bowl.