Indian-Style Spicy Tomato Lentil Dal

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Red lentils (masoor dal)
• 1 cup Tomatoes, chopped (or canned)
• 1/2 medium Onion, finely chopped(optional)
• 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Garam masala
• 1/2 tsp Ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp Chili powder (or cayenne)
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric
• 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper(optional)
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice(optional)
• 1 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped(optional)
• 2 1/2 cups Water

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Rinse the red lentils until the water runs mostly clear. Chop tomatoes and (if using) onion; grate ginger and mince garlic.

2. 2

   Cook (25 minutes): In a pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion (if using) and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in ginger and garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

3. 3

   Add spices (garam masala, cumin, chili powder, turmeric), stir for 20–30 seconds, then add tomatoes and cook 3–4 minutes until they break down slightly.

4. 4

   Add lentils, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and the dal thickens.

5. 5

   Finish: Stir in lemon juice (if using) and black pepper. Taste and adjust salt/chili. Serve hot, topped with cilantro (if using).