Dal Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Red Lentils (Masoor Dal), rinsed thoroughly
• 3-4 cups Water or Vegetable Broth
• 1 tbsp Oil or Ghee
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1 Medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 Cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 inch Ginger, grated
• 1-2 Green Chilies, chopped (optional, for heat)
• 1 Large Tomato, diced
• ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Garam Masala or Curry Powder
• ½ can Coconut Milk (approx. 200ml) - optional, for richness
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander (Cilantro), chopped
• Salt to taste 

Method:

• Sauté Aromatics
  Heat oil or ghee in a pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and soft. 
•  Cook Spices and Tomato
  Add the diced tomato, turmeric powder, and curry powder/garam masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomato softens and mashes easily. 
•  Simmer Lentils
  Add the washed red lentils and 3-4 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are completely soft and broken down. 
• 4Finish the Soup
  Stir in the coconut milk (if using) and simmer for another 5 minutes. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend to your desired consistency. 
•  Garnish and Serve
  Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice and fresh coriander. Taste and adjust salt. Serve hot.