1In a pan, add oil and then cumin seeds, black cardamom, star anise, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Fry for 30 seconds.
2Add thinly sliced onions and fry until golden brown.
3Add sliced tomatoes, a little water, and cook until soft.
4Mash the tomatoes slightly with a spoon.
5Add coriander powder, salt, red chili powder, chilli flakes, and turmeric powder. Mix well and sauté until fragrant.
6Add soaked moong dal and cook for 10-12 minutes until well combined.
7Add water to the moong dal and cover. Cook on low heat for 7-8 minutes.
8In a separate pan, prepare the tadka by heating oil and adding garlic-ginger paste, green chilies, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant.
9Add red chili powder to the tadka and cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat.
10Pour the tadka over the cooked moong dal and mix gently.