Easy Masoor Daal

1 cup red lentils

1 slice ginger, 1 inch piece, peeled

¼ teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste

4 teaspoons vegetable oil

4 teaspoons dried minced onion

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

Rinse lentils thoroughly and place in a medium saucepan along with ginger, turmeric, salt and cayenne pepper. Cover with about 1 inch of water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that forms on top of the lentils. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and soupy.

Meanwhile, in a microwave safe dish combine oil, dried onion and cumin seeds. Microwave on high for 45 seconds to 1 minute; be sure to brown, but not burn, onions. Stir into lentil mixture.