Combine the ginger, garlic, coriander, and the 1 teaspoon ground cumin in a small bowl and stir in the 1/4 cup of water to make a paste.
Heat olive oil in a small skillet. Add the 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin and shallot and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Add the bowl of spice paste and let cook until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and the 1 tablespoon of water, cook until thick, about 1 minute, and set aside.
Combine the lentils, turmeric, and the 5 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, until the lentils are barely tender.
Add the green beans, collard greens, celery, the 3/4 cup cilantro, and the cayenne, stir and season with salt. Cook until the lentils and vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
Add the cooked spice paste that was set aside and the remaining cilantro, stir, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes and serve.
By Deeli from Richland, WA
You don't need a lot of time to cook up a pan of deliciously seasoned chickpea curry for tonight's dinner. Also known as Chana Masala, this Indian dish is popular in restaurants and home kitchens alike.