Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare 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 becomes translucent and lightly golden brown.

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.Add Tomatoes

   Dice 3 tomatoes into small pieces. Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and break down, forming a saucy mixture.

5. 5.Prepare Lentils

   Rinse 1 1/3 cups of red/orange lentils thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain well.

6. 6.Combine and Cook

   Add the rinsed and drained lentils to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of water or stock. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.

7. 7.Simmer the Dal

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 25 minutes. During this time, open the lid every 4-5 minutes and stir to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom and ensure even cooking.

8. 8.Finish and Serve

   After 25 minutes, turn off the heat. Add about 1/2 cup of freshly chopped coriander to the dal and stir well to combine. Serve the hot dal immediately.