Step 1

Rinse lentils well; set aside.

Step 2

Heat oil or ghee in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until just tender and starting to turn golden (5 minutes), then stir through cinnamon and curry powder until fragrant (1 minute).

Step 3

Add lentils to pan with coconut milk and chicken stock. Bring to the boil, lower heat to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally until lentils are tender (15-20 minutes).

Step 4

For tempered spices, heat ghee in a saucepan over high heat. Add spices and stir until fragrant (10 seconds), then add curry leaves and remove from heat. Serve dhal with tempered spices spooned over, topped with yoghurt, sliced cucumber and rice or naan on the side.