Pressure cook the masoor dal adding 3 cups of water for 3-4 whistles.
Heat oil or ghee in a Kadai and add the cumin and let them splutter.
Then add asafetida, minced ginger-garlic, chopped green chili, curry leaves, and saute for 15 secs.
Next, add the onions and saute till the onions turn light brown in color.
Add tomatoes and all the spice powders – turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder and cook till tomatoes turn soft, which takes 2-3 minutes.
Now add the cooked and mashed dal (lentils), stir well. Add water to adjust consistency and salt to taste. Boil dal for 2-3 minutes on a medium-low flame. Finally, add chopped coriander leaves.
Red Lentil dal recipe is ready, add some lemon juice and cilantro, mix well and serve hot with boiled rice, quinoa, or roti.