1 plump green chilli, split lengthways
2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
15g/Β½oz piece fresh root ginger, peeled and finely grated
1 onion, finely sliced
2 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
Β½ tsp dried chilli flakes
300g/10Β½oz masoor dal (split red lentils), rinsed and drained
pinch asafoetida
freshly ground black pepper
Β½ tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala
Β½ tsp black mustard seeds
Β½ tsp fine sea salt
2 tbsp sunflower oil or ghee
1 tsp ground turmeric