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 pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and lightly golden.

3. 3.Add Ginger, Garlic, and Curry Powder

   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 and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and break down, about 3-5 minutes.

6. 6.Rinse and Drain Lentils

   Rinse 1 1/3 cups of red or orange lentils thoroughly under cold water, then drain well.

7. 7.Add Lentils and Water/Stock

   Add the rinsed and drained lentils to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of water or stock.

8. 8.Season and Stir

   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.

9. 9.Simmer Dal

   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. 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 sticking and ensure even cooking.

11. 11.Chop Coriander

    While the dal is simmering, 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 red lentil dal hot.