Fried Dal (Lentil Soup) Recipe!!

Again one of those cold days here in the Midwest. It looks like spring is going to be a stranger this year. Anyways, at least there is food from which I can feel the warmth of summer days. Today, I made lentil soup, which is also called (Fried Dal) in Nepali. The extra ingredient I added was Basil. I do not now what it is but I am obsessed with Basil. The smell, taste, texture and just everything about it. There are several other ways to make lentil soup (Fried Dal) and here is how I prepare:

Oh!! Yumminess :D

Prep time: 10min(s) Cook time: 25min(s) Total time: 35min(s) 

Things you will need:

• Any Yellow Lentil (1 and 1/2 cup)
• Onion (1 medium sized, finely chopped)
• Serrano Pepper (1, finely chopped. OPTIONAL)
• Basil Leaves (3-4)
• Ghee/Butter (2 table spoons)
• Tomato (2 medium sized, finely chopped)
• Cumin Seeds (1 tea spoon)
• Fennel Seeds (1 tea spoon)
• Mustard Seeds (1 tea spoon)
• Cumin-Coriander Powder (1 table spoon)
• Ginger-Garlic Paste (1/2 table spoon)
• Turmeric (1 tea spoon)
• Oil (1 tea spoon)
• Salt (according to taste)

Directions:

1. On a pressure cooker, add lentil and wash it 2-3 times. Add water and measure with your fingers (2 inches). Also add salt, 1/2 tea spoon turmeric powder and oil. Close the cap and cook it on a medium heat until it whistles thrice.
2. Once, lentil is cooked, add water (according to the consistency you desire) and stir properly. 
3. Heat Ghee/Butter and add basil leaves, fennel, cumin, and mustard seeds. Once seeds look brownish black add onion and Serrano pepper. Fry until golden Brown.
4. Add tomato, coriander-cumin powder, ginger-garlic paste and remaining turmeric powder. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes. 
5. Pour lentil onto the pan mixture and stir well. Cook on medium heat for 6-8 minutes.
6. Serve with rice or bread :)