Dimpi's Garlic Dal

Dal is one of the most common lentil dishes from India. There are countless variations and I make several kinds. This is my most simple, go-to recipe.

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1  cup  toor dal
• 1⁄2 cup red lentil (masoor)
• 3  cups water
• 1  medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1  teaspoon canola oil
• 1⁄4 teaspoon black mustard seeds
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cumin seed
• 1  serrano pepper, slit
• 2  dried red chilies, broken into half
• 3 -4  curry leaves
• 2  garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1⁄4 cup cilantro, chopped
•  salt, to taste

Directions

1. Rinse the lentils several times, then combine the first 6 ingredients (through turmeric) and pressure cook until soft.
2. In a saucepan, heat oil. Add mustard seeds. When mustard crackles, add cumin seeds and red chillies. Stir for a few seconds.
3. Now add serrano pepper (deseed if you don't want heat), curry leaves and garlic. Stir until garlic is barely colored.
4. Now add the cooked lentil mixture, water if needed and bring to a boil.
5. When dal is boiling, add cumin and salt to taste. Lower heat, cover and simmer for a few minutes.
6. Take off heat, add cilantro and mix well.
7. Serve hot with rice or chapati.