DAL

Making homemade dal is a comforting and nutritious dish that's a staple in many Indian households. Here's a basic recipe for a simple, delicious dal:
### Ingredients:
- **1 cup lentils** (Toor dal, Masoor dal, Moong dal, or a mix)
- **3 cups water**
- **1 onion** (finely chopped)
- **1 tomato** (finely chopped)
- **2 green chilies** (slit)
- **1 inch ginger** (finely chopped)
- **4-5 garlic cloves** (finely chopped)
- **2 tablespoons oil or ghee**
- **1 teaspoon cumin seeds**
- **1 teaspoon mustard seeds**
- **1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder**
- **1 teaspoon red chili powder** (adjust to taste)
- **1 teaspoon garam masala** (optional)
- **Salt to taste**
- **Fresh coriander leaves** (for garnish)
- **Lemon juice** (optional)
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Lentils:**
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
- In a pressure cooker or a large pot, add the rinsed lentils and 3 cups of water.
- Add turmeric powder and a little salt.
- Cook the lentils until soft. If using a pressure cooker, cook for about 3-4 whistles. If using a pot, cook until the lentils are soft and mushy, adding more water if necessary.
2. **Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):**
- In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter.
- Add finely chopped garlic and ginger. Sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Add red chili powder and garam masala (if using). Mix well.
3. **Combine and Simmer:**
- Add the cooked lentils to the tempering. Mix well.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Check for salt and adjust accordingly.
4. **Finish and Serve:**
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve hot with rice or Indian bread (roti, naan).
Enjoy your homemade dal! Let me know if you have any specific preferences or dietary restrictions, and I can adjust the recipe accordingly.