Soak chana dal in water for 2 hours. Wash it and transfer it in a pressure cooker. Add 1/2 tablespoon of salt and 1 cup of water. Heat pressure cooker on medium flame and after one whistle lower the flame and cook for 7-8 minutes. Switch off the burner after 5-6 whistles.

Heat oil in a deep pan over moderate flame and add cumin seeds and onions. Saute the onions until golden brown. Grind tomatoes and green chillies to make a thick paste. Add ginger- garlic paste in the pan and then add tomato paste.

Stir for 2-4 minutes. Now add salt,turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, garam masala and hing. Mix well. Now remove the lid of the cooker and transfer chana dal to the pan. Mix well and cook for 4-5 minutes. Once done, transfer the dal to a serving bowl and garnish with some coriander leaves. Serve hot with chappatis or rice.