1⁄2 cups yellow lentils, cleaned, washed and drained (Toor dal) • oil • mustard seeds • fenugreek seeds (methi) • cumin seed • fresh curry leaves, washed and torn • fresh ginger, peeled, washed and finely chopped • asafoetida powder • medium green chilies, washed and chopped • medium fresh tomatoes, washed, peeled and chopped • 1⁄4 cups water, divided • ⁄3 cup tamarind pulp •