Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Lentils

   Take 300g of red lentils in a pot and give them a quick wash with cold water. Drain the water.

2. 2.Start Cooking the Dal

   Add 900ml of water to the washed lentils. Add 1 tsp of salt and 1 tsp of turmeric. Place the pot on the stove and bring it to a boil.

3. 3.Prepare Tadka Ingredients

   While the dal is coming to a boil, finely chop 2 medium-sized onions, thinly slice 3-4 cloves of garlic, chop 1 tomato, and half a red chilli.

4. 4.Simmer the Dal

   Once the dal comes to a boil (after about 5 minutes), let it simmer for 10 minutes. The lentils should be soft and breaking apart when cooked.

5. 5.Start the Tadka

   In a separate pan, heat 2 tbsp of ghee and 1 tsp of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 tsp of cumin seeds and let them sizzle.

6. 6.Sauté Aromatics

   Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it starts to turn golden. Then, add the chopped onions and cook for about 6-7 minutes until they are nicely browned.

7. 7.Add Tomatoes and Finish Tadka

   Add the chopped tomato and red chilli to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften. While it cooks, chop a handful of fresh coriander. Turn off the heat, add the coriander and a pinch of chilli powder to the tadka, and mix well.

8. 8.Combine and Serve

   Transfer the cooked dal to a serving bowl. Pour the hot tadka over the dal. The Tadka Dal is ready to be served.