 Let's make dal the ultimate comfort food, especially when served over a bed of fluffy white rice. Start by sauteing some onions, garlic, and whole spices in oil. When they're golden brown, add chili powder, turmeric, lentils, and water. Bring it all to a boil then lower the heat and simmer until the lentils are cooked through. Then remove it from the heat and make the tarka. Temper garlic, whole spices, peppers, and curry leaves in key and oil until fragrant, then pour them over the dal and finish with cilantro.