<ul>
<li>1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)</li>
<li>1 medium onion, finely chopped</li>
<li>2 cloves garlic, minced</li>
<li>1-inch piece of ginger, grated</li>
<li>2 medium tomatoes, chopped</li>
<li>1 teaspoon turmeric powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon cumin seeds</li>
<li>1 teaspoon coriander powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon garam masala</li>
<li>1 green chili, slit (optional)</li>
<li>2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)</li>
<li>Salt to taste</li>
<li>Fresh cilantro for garnish</li>
<li>4 cups water</li>
</ul>