Stussy what the hell is dhal? Ive never heard of that. Do you mean phal?
Dhal is lentils, really nice.
My mates parents are from India, and his mums food is incredible. When he comes round ours we have lasagne or sausage and mash. When I go round his we have feasts. Rice with peas and onions in it, dhal which is like a thick lentil broth, aubergine and potato curry, with salad and greek yoghurt.
My favourite is keema with chapatis. Mince lamb with finely chopped potato, peas and mushrooms in it. Seriously, Indian food in a restaurant isn't that nice compared to the stuff my mate gets cooked for him at home.