Spiced Lentils

(Known as dal in India, this dish is often offered over rice or topped with plain yogurt)

 

6 cups water	2 cups finely chopped onions
2 cups lentils, rinsed, drained	1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger	Pinch of ground cloves
1 teaspoon salt	Curry powder
3 tablespoons vegetable oil	1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro, or more to taste

 

Bring first 4 ingredients (water, lentils, ginger, salt) and 1 tablespoon oil to boil in large saucepan. Reduce heat to medium; simmer uncovered until lentils are tender, about 35 minutes.

 

Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in heavy medium skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until brown, about 18 minutes. Mix in chili powder and cloves; stir 1 minute. Stir onion mixture into lentils. Season with pepper. Transfer to bowl. Sprinkle with curry powder, then cilantro.  Makes 6 servings