1-2 dried red chillies
3 heaped tbsp flaked or desiccated coconut or ¼ small fresh coconut, flesh chopped into small cubes
250g/9oz chana dal, thoroughly cleaned
2 dried bay leaves
5 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
1 small cinnamon stick
5 cloves
1 heaped tsp ground coriander
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp brown mustard seeds
2 tbsp oil, unsalted butter or ghee
salt, to taste
2-3 tsp sugar
½ tsp ground turmeric