Hello dal-ling!

I found this recipe for Dal from a cookbook I received this Christmas. What you will need:

1 cup dried lentils

3 cups water

2 cups finely chopped onion

olive oil

2 cloves of garlic

1 teaspoon of curry powder

1 glass of wine to consume while cooking

I began by combining the lentils, water and 1 cup of onion and bringing to a boil.  Once brought to a boil, I reduced the heat and simmered for about 30-40 minutes. 

Halfway through the boiling/simmering process, I heated some olive oil up in a medium pan and added the remaining onion, garlic and curry powder. I sauteed until the onions were golden and soft.  I then combined the saute with the cooked lentils and salted to taste.

Although this recipe doesn't call for butter, I threw in a small chunk in the lentils while cooking for taste. I also used a potato masher to mash up the lentils while cooking. I'm sure there's more sophisticated techniques, but I was unsure of the "professional" way to achieve a hearty yet smooth consistency. I wanted to stay away from making a soupy dal. 

I served this over some brown rice. I thought it was tasty if I do say so myself.