Wash dals 2-3 times till water runs clear.
Pressure cook dals with 3 garlic cloves that are lightly smashed, bay leaf, and 1 cup of water. (I pressure cooker in instant pot for 15 minutes).
In another pan, heat olive oil (or ghee/butter).
Once heated, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, hing, red chilies, minced garlic, and tablespoon of coriander leaves. Give it a quick stir and immediately add the onions.
Stir fry onions till they are nicely caramelized.
Add red chili powder, garam masala powder and tablespoon of butter. Mix well and switch of gas.
Add this tempering to the cooked dal and stir well.
Before serving, discard the bay leaf. Garnish dal with remaining coriander leaves and serve with steaming rice with dollop of ghee or butter.