handful fresh coriander leaves, chopped
3 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole
2cm/戮in piece fresh root ginger, peeled and cut into thin strips
1 small onion, chopped
250g/9oz chana dal, rinsed until the water runs clear
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1陆 tsp ground coriander
1 tbsp cumin seeds
戮 tsp garam masala
戮 tsp ground turmeric
3 tbsp vegetable oil