1 onion diced
as much garlic as you like (I use 4 cloves) minced
3 tablespoons veg oil
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon each curry pawder, paprika (or to taste)
4 tablespoons tomato paste
1 large can lentils, drained and rinsed
1/2 to 1 cup water
2 tablespoons vinegar (any kind)
salt and pepper
Heat the oil over medium until quite hot. Fry the bay leave until it's really fragrant. Add the onions, and cook till golden.
Add the garlic and tomato paste. Cook for another minute or so. Keep stirring so the tomato doesn't burn.
Add the spices and cook for a minute or so more.
Add the water, and the vinegar, then stir in the lentils. If it looks too thick, add more water until it's fairly runny.
Let it simmer on med/low heat until it gets thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve over rice.