In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Add the washed and drained masoor dal to the pot and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in 3 cups of water to the pot and stir well. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the lentils are soft and fully cooked.
Use a wooden spoon to mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot to thicken the dal. Stir well.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve the Masoor Dal hot with rice or naan bread.