Vengaya thal sambar/ green onion sambar

Ingredients

• Toor dhal or red lentils, 1 cup.
• Small onions, 1 cup.
• Scallions, 1 bunch.
• Tomatoes, medium size, 2.
• Garlic, 2 cloves (optional).
• Turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon.
• Tamarind, a small lemon-sized ball or 2 tablespoons of tamarind pulp.
• Chili powder, 1 teaspoon.
• Coriander powder, 2 teaspoons.
• Sambar powder, store brought or homemade, 1 teaspoon.
• Asafetida, 1 pinch.
• Salt as per taste.
• Mustard seeds, ½ teaspoon.
• Curry leaves, 1 sprig.
• Chopped cilantro, a handful.
• Vadakam, 1 teaspoon, (optional).