Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Rinse the Lentils

   Place the yellow lentils (also known as yellow split peas) into a large bowl. Cover them with water and use your hand to rinse off any excess dirt and debris. The water will become cloudy. Strain the lentils and check for any foreign objects such as small stones.

2. 2.Cook the Lentils

   Add the rinsed and strained lentils to a saucepan. Cover the lentils with water, then add a pinch of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir to combine the ingredients. As the lentils begin to cook, foam will develop on the surface; skim this off with a spoon until mostly removed. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 20 minutes.

3. 3.Stir and Mash Lentils (Mid-Cook)

   Halfway through the cooking process (around 10 minutes), lift the lid and stir the lentils. You'll notice they have absorbed most of the water and are beginning to soften. Use a spoon or masher to lightly mash some of the lentils. Cover the pot again and continue cooking for the remaining time.

4. 4.Prepare the Spices for Tarka

   Place a mortar and pestle on a folded kitchen towel to soften the impact while grinding. Add 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds and 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds to the mortar. Cover the mortar with your hand, leaving a small opening for the pestle, and grind the spices until they are coarsely crushed. This technique prevents the spices from flying out.

5. 5.Bloom the Spices (Tarka)

   On medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil to a small saucepan. Once the oil is hot, add the freshly ground coriander and fennel seeds. Then add 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes, 1 tablespoon of chopped garlic, and 1 tablespoon of chopped ginger. Stir the mixture well until it begins to foam. Finally, add 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala and mix until fully combined.

6. 6.Combine Tarka with Dal

   Pour the hot tarka mixture directly into the cooked lentil dal. Stir the tarka into the dal until it is fully incorporated. Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro and mix it in. Season the dal with additional salt to taste, if needed.

7. 7.Serve the Dal

   Serve the beautiful lentil dal hot in a bowl and enjoy.