Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 piece fresh ginger (2 inches long), peeled and finely grated

Coarse salt

2 teaspoons curry powder

1 teaspoon garam masala (optional)

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 jar (26 ounces) best-quality store-bought tomato sauce

2 cans (20 ounces each) cooked lentils, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish (optional)

Cooked basmati (or other long-grain white) rice, for serving

Preparation

In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium. Add onion and ginger; season with salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until beginning to brown, 5 to 8 minutes.

Add spices; cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 to 60 seconds.

Add tomato sauce, lentils, and 1 cup water. Simmer until slightly thickened, 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in lime juice and cilantro; season with salt.

Serve lentil mixture with rice; garnish with more cilantro, if desired.