Our favorite comfort food is spiced dal. Dal being an extremely vague word that refers to an entire genre of beans and anything made from them as far as we can tell. This kind of spiced dal is a super seasoned red lentil mush served on rice. Smooth, warm, and gently spicy. (or mouth burning hot depending on how much cayenne A put in)

Spiced Dal adapted from The Vegetarian Epicure

1 1/2 cups red lentils
3 1/2 cups water
3/4 tsp salt
3 TBS oil
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp ground turmeric
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/4 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp cayenne OR LESS
1/8 tsp ground cloves
1/16 tsp ground cinnamon

Bring the lentils, water, and salt to a boil and simmer uncovered until a soft mush. In a separate large skillet heat the oil and add all the spices. Let the spices bubble and pop for a couple minutes then remove the skillet from the heat. When the lentils are ready pour them into the skillet. This will spatter and spit hot lentils so make sure your arms are covered. Return the skillet to low heat and cook for a minute to flavor the lentils or for longer if the whole thing needs a little time to thicken. Serve over rice.

Red lentils can be hard to find. Your best bet is any store that has a bulk dry goods section. We like them because they become much smoother and creamier when cooked than brown or green lentils and have a lovely pale orange color.