Simple Chana Dal Soup

In a food processor, pulse jalapeno pepper and garlic. Add in chickpeas and 1/8 cup water. Process to a coarse paste.
In a stockpot, heat oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin and cook for 1 minute or so. Add cayenne, chat masala and turmeric (if using) and stir to combine spices. 
Add the chickpea mixture to pot and stir. Pour in 1 cup water and bring to a boil. Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes. Add salt and any additional seasoning (more cayenne or chat masala,) to taste and simmer for a few more minutes. Stir in the fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Note: Masala is an Indian term for "spice mixture." The term derives from an Arabic word for "necessity." Chat masala is often a blend of the following spices: cardamom, cumin, black pepper and cinnamon. I used equal parts of each and keep the blend on hand in my spice collection.