Red Lentil Dal

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils
• 4 cups water
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 medium onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp ginger
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ½ can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (optional)
• 4 lemon wedge (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse red lentils thoroughly under cold water.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in the rinsed lentils, water, diced tomatoes, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until lentils are tender and have thickened.
6. If desired, mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot for a creamier texture. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a lemon wedge, if using.