Step 1

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in large pot. When the oil is hot, add the onion.

Step 2

Sweat the until soft and translucent, about five minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 3

Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin and turmeric. Sauté everything for about 1 minute, until very fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent anything from burning.

Step 4

Stir in the peas, broth, cinnamon stick and cloves. Raise the heat and bring the broth to a boil.

Step 5

Lower the heat, cover and allow the dal to simmer for about one hour (Note 1), stirring occasionally. Add hot water to the pot as the liquid dries up. (Note 2)

Step 6

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lemon juice, sambal oelek, salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7

Ladle into bowls and serve with rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.