Ai-hula (lentil stew)

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils and check there are no stones.
2. Thinly slice the onion, crush the garlic and dice the tomatoes.
3. Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry the onion for 5 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the garlic, turmeric and cumin, then stir for 1 minute.
5. Add the tomatoes and let them melt down for 5 minutes over low heat.
6. Add the lentils and water, bring to the boil, then lower the heat.
7. Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes with the lid on, stirring from time to time, until the lentils are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper, then serve with the rice.