Rinse 1 cup yellow moong dal or toor dal thoroughly
Soak the dal for 20 to 30 minutes
Pressure cook the dal with 3 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, and salt until soft
Mash the cooked dal lightly and keep it aside
Heat 2 tablespoons ghee or oil in a pan
Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and let them splutter
Add 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds if desired
Add 2 to 3 dried red chilies
Add 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
Add 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
Add 1 to 2 green chilies, chopped
Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until golden
Add 1 finely chopped tomato and cook until soft
Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, and 1 teaspoon coriander powder
Cook the spice mixture until the oil separates
Pour the cooked dal into the pan
Add water to adjust the consistency
Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes
Add salt if needed
Add 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
Add chopped coriander leaves
Finish with a spoon of ghee
Serve hot with rice or roti