1. Sauté minced onion and garlic in oil.
2. Add diced deseeded tomato, minced bird's eye chili, washed and drained lentils, curry to taste (about a teaspoon), salt, and pepper.
3. Cover with water until the lentils are covered by 1 or 2 cm. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes.
4. Red lentils cook quickly: it's better to closely monitor them if you prefer them to retain their shape. Otherwise, you'll get a puree that is also pleasant.
5. Serve sprinkled with some minced fresh coriander, with rice and a salad to make a complete vegetarian meal.