Indian-Style Spicy Lentil Dal (Masoor)

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup Red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed
• 3 cups Water
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp Garam masala
• 1/4 tsp Ground chili (or cayenne)
• 3/4 tsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Olive oil (or neutral oil)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice(optional)
• 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (about 10 minutes): Rinse the lentils. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic; grate the ginger.

2. 2

   Cook dal (about 25 minutes): In a pot, combine rinsed lentils, 3 cups water, turmeric, garam masala, chili, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer and cook until lentils are very soft and the mixture is thickened, stirring occasionally.

3. 3

   Temper (about 10 minutes): While the dal simmers, heat oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, then add garlic and ginger and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

4. 4

   Finish: Stir the tempered onion-garlic-ginger mixture into the dal. Simmer 2–3 minutes to meld flavors. Turn off heat and stir in lemon juice (if using). Garnish with cilantro (if using) and serve.