Place everything into a big pot or pressure cooker and cover with at least 3 cm water.
Bring to a boil and then to a simmer. If you are using a pressure cooker, cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. If you are using a regular saucepan, simmer for 15-20 minutes, covered. If you are using a regular saucepan, check it every once in a while to make sure there is water in the pan and it is not simmering dry. If you are using a different type of lentil, it will take longer to cook.
When the lentils are super soft - not chalky at all. Give everything a good stir. Fish out the ginger, turmeric, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and clove. Taste and adjust for salt.
Serve on its own or over rice. You can also add some more water or vegetable stock and have it as a soup.