Wash lentils (arhar dal) under running water till water runs clear. In a pressure cooker add washed dal, turmeric powder and 3 cups of water. Cover with lid and place the cooker on medium heat. Let it cook for 5-6 whistles or till dal becomes soft.
Place a frying pan on medium heat. Add ghee or oil. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
Add chopped ginger and garlic, sauté for 30 seconds or till the raw aroma goes. Then add sliced onions and cook till onions become translucent and turn golden in colour.
Add chopped green chilies.
Add chopped tomatoes and mix. Cook for 2 - 3 min or till they become soft.
Add the cooked dal prepared in step 1. and mix. Add water to adjust consistency and let it simmer on low heat.
In a small saute pan, heat two teaspoon of oil.
Gather whole spices. Add spices to crackle. It will take just 10 - 20 seconds.
Add in the simmering dal prepared in step 7. Switch off the gas. Garnish with coriander leaves. Serve with phulka or naan.