Padma Lakshmi's South Indian Lentil Soup (Masoor Dal) Recipe

Step 1

Soak masoor lentils for 2 to 3 hours in tepid water. Drain and wash until water runs clear.

Step 2

Gently boil the lentils in 6 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of salt until they are soft and mushy on medium, partially covered. You may need to add more water. That should take 30 over medium heat, maintaining a constant rolling gentle boil. Make sure to skim away any foam off the top with a spoon.

Step 3

Once the lentils are soft, take a wooden spoon or mallet and mash them until they form a gravy-like, thick liquid. It’s fine if some of the lentils remain coarse. Add kale to dal; mix well. Adjust for salt, if needed.

Step 4

In a wok or small frying pan, heat oil over medium-high. Toast the cumin seeds for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the chopped onion and red chiles, sautéing until the onions become translucent or glassy, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 5

Add the ginger and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes more. Add the turmeric powder and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 6

Add the chopped tomato, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes more. Add mixture to the lentils and kale, and stir to combine.

Step 7

Add the lemon juice and cilantro before serving.