Wash all the lentils thoroughly and soak for 20–30 minutes.
Pressure cook the lentils with turmeric and enough water until soft.
Heat oil or ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds.
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
Add red chili powder and salt, then mix well.
Pour the cooked dal into the pan and add extra water to make it thin and soup-like.
Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh coriander.