heat lentils and water to boiling in 2-quart saucepan, Stir in salt and turmeric. Cover and simmer about 40 minutes or until lentils are tender. Saute onion , garlic, cumin and cardamon in oil, until onion is tender. Stir onion mixture into lentils. cook uncover 20-30 min until you get the consistency of refried beans. Serve over rice