Curried Red Lentils

Description: For me, this is comfort food. It only take about a half hour to make, and with some fresh pitas, it's a fantastic meal by itself.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentil
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon curry paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato puree

Steps:

1. Rinse the lentils in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Add lentils and enough water to cover to a saucepan and simmer until the lentils are tender (about 30 minutes).
3. Add water if necessary.
4. While the lentils are cooking, caramelize the onions in the vegetable oil in a large skillet.
5. Combine the curry paste, spices, garlic and ginger in a bowl.
6. Mix well.
7. When the onions are cooked, add the curry mixture to the pan.
8. Cook over a high heat, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes.
9. Stir in the tomat puree and reduce the heat to a simmer.
10. Cook the curry base until the lentils are ready.
11. When the lentils are tender, drain off any exceess water and add the lentils to the curry mixture.
12. Combine thoroughly and serve immediately.