masoor dal tadka

rinse the whole masoor dal under cold water until the water runs clear. set it aside.

in a pot, add the rinsed dal along with water, turmeric powder, and salt. cook until the dal is soft and fully cooked. this usually takes about 25-30 minutes.

in a separate pan, heat the groundnut oil over medium heat. add the green cardamom pods, bay leaf, and cumin seeds. sauté for a minute until aromatic.

add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

stir in the finely chopped green chilies, ginger, and minced garlic. sauté for another minute.

add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil starts to separate. add red chili and coriander powder and cook for 1-2 minutes.

add the prepared tadka to the dal and mix well. garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.