Simple Savory Lentils (Dal)

This is the dal recipe I've cooked for years. It's mildly spicy & compliments more firey Indian dishes. It's always best after a day or two. Prep time doesn't include soaking.

• Ready In: 1 hr 30 mins
• Serves: 4
• Yields: 1 dal

Ingredients

• 1  cup dried lentils, any color, any size
• 4  cups water
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1  teaspoon turmeric, ground
• 1  tablespoon  vegetable oil
• 1  onion, medium, finely chopped
• 1  teaspoon cumin, ground
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cardamom, ground
• 2  garlic cloves, minced

Directions

1. Soak lentils in water to cover for several hours or overnight. Drain.
2. Bring lentils & 4 cups water to a boil in a saucepan & stir in salt & turmeric.
3. Cover & simmer about 45 minutes or until lentils are tender (but not mushy.).
4. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat & cook onion, cumin & cardamon, stirring, about 3 minutes.
5. Add garlic & cook, stirring, another minute.
6. Stir onion mixture into lentils.
7. Cook uncovered over low heat 30 minutes, stirring frequently.