handful fresh coriander leaves, chopped
3 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole
2cm/¾in 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
1½ tsp ground coriander
1 tbsp cumin seeds
¾ tsp garam masala
¾ tsp ground turmeric
3 tbsp vegetable oil