Tarka Dal

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This simple tarka dal/dhal recipe is really cheap to make and tastes great as a side dish. Double the recipe for a main meal.

Serves 4

• ½ cup dried red lentils
• 1 small onion, diced finely
• ½ tsp cumin seeds/powder
• ½ red chilli, de-seeded and chopped finely, optional 
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 2 heaped tsp grated fresh ginger
• 2-4 cloves of garlic, crushed or finely sliced
• 1 heaped tsp garam masala
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp tomato purée

Place the lentils in a pan with 1½ cups boiling water. 

Bring to the boil and simmer for 20 minutes or until tender, adding a little more water if needed.

In another pan make the tarka by heating 1 tbsp vegetable oil. 
Fry the cumin and onion until golden.
Add the remaining ingredients (except the garam masala) and cook for 2-3 minutes on a low heat.

Add the cooked dal to the tarka and stir in the garam masala. Season to taste.
Cook on a low heat for a further 5 minutes, adding a little more water if needed.

Serve with rice/chapattis and a vegetable curry.

Alternatives: Try using different pulses or a combination of lentils and adjust the cooking time as necessary.