Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Chop Onion

   Chop one onion into small pieces.

2. 2.Sauté Onion

   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it softens and turns slightly 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 the spices are fragrant.

4. 4.Dice Tomatoes

   Dice 3 tomatoes into small cubes.

5. 5.Cook Tomatoes

   Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and break down into a sauce-like consistency.

6. 6.Rinse and Drain Lentils

   Rinse 1 1/3 cups of red or orange lentils under cold running water in a sieve until the water runs clear. Drain thoroughly.

7. 7.Combine and Simmer

   Add the rinsed and drained lentils to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of water or stock. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring well.

8. 8.Cook Lentils

   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for about 25 minutes. Open the lid every 4-5 minutes and stir to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

9. 9.Chop Coriander

   Chop fresh coriander for garnish.

10. 10.Finish and Serve

    Turn off the heat. Add the chopped coriander to the cooked dal and stir well to combine. Serve hot.