Spicy Indian Lentil Puree

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Spicy Indian Lentil Puree

 

1 cup small red lentils

3 cups water

1 tsp. ground turmeric

1 teaspoon salt

1 medium onion

1 tsp. finely chopped hot chilies

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 tsp. ginger, minced

1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/8 tsp. ground cloves

1 tsp. cumin

1 tsp. coriander

1/8 teaspoon cardamom

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 teaspoon pepper

 

To begin, mix your spices. In a small bowl combine cinnamon, cloves, cumin,

coriander, cardamom, cayenne, and pepper. Set the spice mixture aside.

Over a high heat bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the salt, turmeric and

lentils to the boiling water. Gently boil the lentils over a medium heat until

they are soft and most of the water has evaporated. It may be necessary to add a

little more water as the lentils cook and be sure to stir them often.

As the lentils are cooking you can prepare the spices. Heat the olive oil in a

deep skillet and add the ginger, onions and garlic. Saute until the onions are

soft and translucent. Now add your spice mixture and the hot peppers. Cook for

about 5 minutes more. You can tell it is ready when the aroma becomes strong and

flavorful. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the onions, garlic,

peppers and spices. Cook over a low heat until well blended.

Remove the  from the stove and set aside to rest for a few minutes before

serving either with flat bread or over steamed rice. This is one of those dishes

that is even better the next day!