Masala Dal

Wash peas well. Place in a bowl, cover with hot water and let sit for an hour. Drain. Place in a large pot, add 4 1/2 cups water and throw in the turmeric. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium low, partially cover and simmer for 45 minutes. Remove from heat, beat with a wire whisk till the mixture is finely pureed. Stir in salt and set aside.

When ready to serve, simmer puree over low heat till piping hot. Heat ghee in a skillet over medium high heat. When very hot, add cumin seeds and fry for 10 seconds. Lower heat, add onions and fry for 20 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Stir in red pepper and immediately pour in to the puree. Garnish with coriander.

Serve with a potato dish, rice and bread.

Julie Sahni, ‘Classic Indian Cooking’ —–