Tarka Dal

Directions

1. 1
   Check the lentils for stones and wash them in several changes of water or until the water starts to run clear.
2. 2
   Put the lentils into a saucepan with the water and salt and bring to the boil.
3. 3
   Turn the heat down and simmer uncoverd for 20 minutes skimming off the froth that collects at the top. Now partly cover the pan.
4. 4
   Cook for a total of an hour stirring now and again. At the end of the hour you should have a pale yellow soup like mixture.
5. 5
   While the dal is cooking fry the onion and garlic in the ghee until the onions are pale brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic as this will add a bad flavour to the dish.
6. 6
   Add the turmeric and garam masala to the onions and cook for a few more seconds.
7. 7
   Stir the onion mixture into the cooked lentils. Serve hot sprinkled with chopped tomato and green coriander.