Fragrant Red Lentils with Rice

This recipe with red lentils and rice uses a fragrant mixture of seasonings and herbs. Garam masala is an Indian dry-roasted blend of ground spices that includes up to a dozen different flavors, from cinnamon to fennel to black pepper; it can be found with other spices in many large supermarkets or specialty grocery stores.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and simmer for 6 minutes or until the onion begins to brown. Add the ginger and the next 5 ingredients (ginger and bay leaf) and simmer for 1 minute. Add 3 cups of water, lentils and salt and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Discard the bay leaves.Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the spring onions and jalapenos; simmer for 5 minutes. Add to the lentil mixture; add the juice, cilantro and garam masala.Place 1/2 cup rice in each of 5 shallow bowls; top with 3/4 cup lentil mixture. Pour 1 tablespoon of yogurt over each serving.Note: Since jalapeno peppers can vary in roasting intensity, you can adjust the amount based on your preference for spicy dishes.