Puneri Dal (Yellow Lentils Pune-Style) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

8 ounces toor dal, washed or 8 ounces split yellow lentils
2 teaspoons goda garam masala powder (see Goda Masala)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 - 1 teaspoon ground red chili powder
2 kokum or 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
2 teaspoons jaggery or 2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
4 tablespoons fresh coconut or 4 tablespoons unsweetened coconut
salt, to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seed
1 pinch asafoetida powder
12 curry leaves (fresh, if possible)
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Preparation

Simmer the lentils in 4 cups of water for approximately 20 minutes, until just cooked, but not 'mushy'.
Keep an eye on the lentils while they cook to ensure the water does not fully evaporate.
Drain off most of the water when the lentils are cooked and add the powder spices, kokum (or tamarind paste), desiccated coconut and salt to taste.
Simmer for a couple of minutes and stir until well mixed, adding more water if necessary to make a moist, but not 'sloppy', consistency.
Remove from the heat and keep warm.
Heat oil in a small pan, add the mustard seeds, and saute until they pop and crackle.
Add the cumin seeds, asafoetida and curry leaves.
Stir once, then pour the oil and spices over the lentils.
Mix well, and serve hot garnished with cilantro.
Accompany with rice and a vegetable curry if desired.