Boil the lentils for around 10 minutes until tender.
Once cooked, drain and set aside. In the meantime, heat up the coconut oil in a large pan over a medium-high heat.
Once hot, add in the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for approximately 5 minutes.
Add in all the spices, stir and cook for a further minute.
Pour in the coconut milk, tomato puree, sugar and salt. Stir and bring to a boil, before reducing the heat and simmering for 5-10 minutes.
If not cooking the lentils separately add the dry lentils with 1-2 cups water or broth and simmer, stirring often and adding more liquid as needed. Simmer 20-25 minutes.
Mix in the lentils and continue to cook for a further 5-10 minutes. Taste and add more salt if needed.
Serve with cooked basmati rice, fresh coriander, mango chutney and enjoy!