I have been making this for years now. It is a pretty basic dal with a mild flavor. I use red lentils as the dal for this. I sometimes see larger and smaller red lentils at various stores, the smaller ones work better but both are fine.
1 C Red lentils, rinsed until water runs clear
1 " Ginger, peeled and minced
0.25 t Turmeric powder
1 t Salt
0.5 t Cayenne pepper (or to taste)
0.25 t Hing/asofoetida (optional, but recommended)
0.25 t Garam masala (optional)
4 t Oil (any neutraloil is fine)
1 t Cumin seeds
3 Garlic cloves, peeled and minced
0.5 C Onion, small dice
~ Chopped cilantro, to taste (optional)
1. In a pot add lentils, ginger, salt, turmeric, cayenne, and hing
2. Add water until water line is 1" above lentils and bring to a boil, skimming off any foam that develops
3. Once boil is achieved, reduce to simmer and stir every once in awhile
4. In skillet/pan add oil and onion and saute over med heat
5. Once onions are starting to brown, add garlic and cumin seeds; cook another 45 seconds, stirring
6. Add everything from pan to pot of lentils, stir
7. Let simmer until flavors are mixed well and you are happy with the consistency
8. If using garam masala, add it now and cook 1 minute more
9. Serve hot and garnish with cilantro if desired