Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Onion

   Chop one onion into small pieces.

2. 2.Sauté the Onion

   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly browned.

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 the spices are fragrant.

4. 4.Prepare and Cook Tomatoes

   Dice 3 tomatoes. Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook until they soften and break down, forming a sauce-like consistency.

5. 5.Rinse and Add Lentils

   Rinse 1 1/3 cups of red or orange lentils under running water until the water runs clear, then drain them. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot with the tomato mixture.

6. 6.Add Liquid and Seasoning

   Pour 4 cups of water or stock into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.

7. 7.Simmer the Dal

   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 25 minutes. Open the lid and stir every 4-5 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

8. 8.Finish with Coriander

   While the dal is simmering, chop fresh coriander. Once the dal is cooked and the lentils are soft, turn off the heat. Add the chopped coriander to the pot and stir well.

9. 9.Serve

   Serve the red lentil dal warm in a bowl.