Here’s a simple recipe for Masoor Dal (Red Lentils) in the Pakistani style:

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)

2. 4 cups water (adjust as needed)

3. 1 onion, finely chopped

4. 2 tomatoes, chopped

5. 2-3 green chilies, chopped (optional)

6. 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

7. 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

8. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

9. 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

10. 1 teaspoon coriander powder

11. 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

12. Salt to taste

13. 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

14. Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Rinse the dal:

Wash the masoor dal thoroughly under cold water. Set it aside.

Cook the dal:

In a pot, add the rinsed dal and 4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are soft and fully cooked. You may need to add a bit more water if it becomes too thick.

Prepare the tempering (tarka):

• In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee on medium heat.
• Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
• Add the chopped onion and saute until golden brown.
• Add the ginger-garlic paste and saute for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
• Now, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and turn into a paste.
• Add the turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.

Combine the dal and tarka:

Once the dal is cooked and soft, pour the prepared tempering into the dal. Stir well, let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors, and adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.

Finish and garnish:

Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with rice or roti.

Enjoy your delicious Masoor Da