Spicy Indian Spread

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons water

1 small onion, chopped

1 lemongrass leaf

3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2cm piece ginger, finely chopped

1 teaspoon black mustard seeds

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 cinnamon stick

1 teaspoon coriander seed

1 teaspoon cumin seed

1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder (or 2 fresh chili)

1 3/4 cup red lentils

2 1/2 cups water

1 tablespoon salt

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method:

1. Sauté the onions in the water.

2. Add garlic, lemongrass, and ginger. Saute a further minute.

3. Add mustard seed, till they start making a popping sound.

4. Add the rest of the spices and lentils. Stir thoroughly till lentils are covered in spices.

5. Add water and bring to boil.

6. Place lid on and simmer 10-15 minutes, or until lentils fall apart. Stirring occasionally.

7. Remove from stove and let cool without the lid.

8. Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon grass.

9. Add salt and lemon juice and blend till smooth.

10. Enjoy on a slice of bread, with a fresh slice of tomato

Variation:

If preferred one can skip step 8 and have a chunky spread instead.