Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Dal

   Wash 1 cup of dried yellow toor dal a couple of times to remove any grit. Soak the dal for 1 hour, then boil it for 20 minutes until tender. This will yield approximately 4 cups of cooked dal.

2. 2.Heat Oil and Temper Whole Spices

   Heat 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a pan over above medium heat. Add 4 dried red chilies, 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds, and 15-20 fresh curry leaves. Fry for a few seconds until fragrant.

3. 3.Sauté Onions

   Add 1 cup of sliced onion and 1 teaspoon of salt to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring continuously, until the onions soften and become translucent.

4. 4.Add Ginger Garlic Paste and Fresh Chilies

   Add 2 tablespoons of ginger garlic paste and 2-3 sliced green chilies. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

5. 5.Cook Tomatoes and Powdered Spices

   Add 1 cup of chopped tomato and 2 teaspoons each of turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for another 4-5 minutes on a fairly lively heat, stirring often, until the tomatoes start to break down and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.

6. 6.Combine with Cooked Dal

   Add the 4 cups of cooked yellow toor dal to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients with the spice mixture. Continue cooking for another 4 minutes or so on vibrant heat, stirring often.

7. 7.Add Water and Simmer

   Pour in about 2 cups of water (adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 8-9 minutes. If the dal reduces too much, you can top it up with more water.

8. 8.Finish with Cilantro

   Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 cup of chopped cilantro (coriander leaves). Give it one final stir to incorporate the fresh herbs.

9. 9.Serve

   Serve the hot Yellow Toor Dal Fry with rice or your favorite Indian bread.