In open pot Red lentils will take more time to cook. Soak lentils 15 mins. before cooking. Boil waterin a big pan, add soaked lentils. Discard the water in which lentils were soaked. Remove the froth that comes on top then add salt , turmeric powder, whole spices. Cover and cook dal on low flame. It may take around 20-30 mins. depending on the quality of lentils and hardness of water. Add tempering once the dal is cooked.