Put the dal into a large pot with 5 cups water and the turmeric and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a strong simmer, partially cover, and cook for 30 to 40 minutes, until the dal is almost mushy. For a more liquid texture, add another 1/2 to 1 cup water
Meanwhile, using a mortar and a pestle or a spice/coffee grinder, grind together he chiles, coriander, cumin, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper. Set aside
When the dal has finished cooking, add the salt and stir, then lower the heat to very low to keep it warm
Heat a work or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil, then the finely chopped onion, and stir-fry for 5 minutes. Add the ground spice blend and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes, then transfer to the pot of dal
Stir the dal well and cook for about 10 minutes, then serve hot