Drain cooked dal and separate it from water completely.

In a mixer jar / blender, add fresh coconut, jeera/cumin seeds, black peppercorns, turmeric powder, Sambar powder (refer notes), tamarind and little water.

Blend to a very smooth paste.

In a deep pot, heat 1.5 teaspoon of oil

Add mustard seeds, curry leaves, dry red chillies and hing/ asafoetida.

Now add in ground masala paste, mix well and cook on medium heat till oil releases from corners. It takes about 4-5 minutes.

Add in cooked dal water, stir well and bring it to boil.

Now add water around 2.5 cups approx. and salt to taste.

Cook on medium flame and let it come to rolling boil.

When it comes to boil , regulate flame to low and close lid.

Let it be on simmer for 5 minutes.

Turn off the stove , add chopped coriander leaves.

Stir well and serve with steamed white rice.