Creamy Red Lentil Dahl

large onion (, chopped finely)

large garlic cloves (, chopped finely )

red chili pepper flakes (, add up to a teaspoon extra if you like it a spicy. You can use 1 fresh small red chili if you prefer)

ground cinnamon

fennel seeds

cumin seeds

ground coriander

fresh ginger (, finely chopped or grated )

slightly heaping teaspoons turmeric

ground pepper (, add more to taste if necessary at the end )

salt (, add more to taste if necessary at the end )

/ 2 cups red lentils (, dried. No need to soak)

large tomatoes (, chopped into small chunks )

/ 400 mls / a little under 1¾ cup coconut milk (, full fat or light )

mls / 3½ cups water (, plus a 3 - 4 tablespoons for sautéing the onion and garlic)