Food/Curry Lentils.md

Curry Lentils

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed and drained
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 green chili, sliced (optional, adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the red lentils and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and cooked through. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface while cooking.
2. In a separate skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent and lightly browned.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric powder, and curry powder. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
5. Add the diced tomato and sliced green chili to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften.
6. Transfer the cooked lentils to the skillet and mix well with the spice mixture. Add salt to taste.
7. Simmer the dal for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves before serving.
9. Serve the lentil curry hot with steamed rice or naan bread.