Mulligatawny Lentils

Ingredients

• 1 Cup, split Masoor dal (Red Lentils)
• 1/2 ground turmeric
• 1-2 fresh hot green chilies , finely chopped (optional)
• 1 clove garlic
• 1.5 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon whole cumin seed
• 1 dried hot red chili
• 1/2 medium shallot/small sweet onion, peeled and cut into very fine slivers