For Seasoning Dal
After boiling dal with some salt, turmeric and ginger add seared spices to the dal.  Sear spices by taking a pot like the one below,  heat the pot, add 1-2 tbsp of ghee, when the ghee is nice and hot, add 1 tsp. of cumin seeds, when they sizzle and brown remove from heat and add chili powder.  Add to the dal. Squeeze some lime juice for a zing.
.

Lodge 10-Ounce Cast Iron Melting Pot