Dry roast the moong dal in pan till golden brown. Wash and soak it for 15-20 minutes. Drain the dal. Keep aside.
Cook the moong dal with 11/2 cups of water until just cooked. Care needs to be taken that the dal does not become too mushy.
Heat oil in pan, when smoking hot, add the paanch phoron, bay leaves and broken red chillies. Allow them to splutter.
Dissolve turmeric powder in a little water and add the paste to the pan. Now add the grated ginger and saute for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the boiled dal, throw in the peas and bring to a simmer. Check the consistency of the dal, it should be slightly thick, if too thick, add some warm water.
Add sugar. Adjust seasonings and finish with a dollop of ghee and garam masala powder.
Serve hot with rice.