Varan / Simple Maharashtrian Dal

Tur Dal / Yellow Split Pigeon Peas - 3/4th cup
Tomato - 1 small, chopped
Turmeric - a pinch
Salt
Olive Oil - 1 tbsp
Mustard Seeds - 1/4 tsp
Cumin Seeds - 1/4 tsp
Hing / Asafoetida - a pinch
Dried Whole Red Chili - 2 (optional)
Garlic - 1 pod, chopped (optional)
Green Chili - 2
Cilantro - a handful, chopped
Water - 3 cups

Cook the dal in a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water along with turmeric.  Mash the boiled dal well with a fork.

Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, hing and the chilies. Add tomato and garlic and cook till the spices are done.

Add the cooked dal and salt and water if required. Bring it to boil and cook for a couple of minutes till it reaches the desired consistency. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with steamed brown rice.