1 cup masoor dal red lentils, picked through for stones
2 cups water
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 (1/2-inch) piece ginger, peeled and minced
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 serrano chile, sliced in 1/2, optional
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds
Generous 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika or bafaat powder
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Handful chopped fresh cilantro leaves