Lentil

Dal

Book measures by weight; no spoon conversion needed.

Instead of Lentil

Red lentils
Use the same weight; it cooks faster and breaks down more, so reduce simmering by about 5–10 minutes and add water if needed.
Split mung beans
Use the same weight; milder and quicker, soak 30 minutes if time and cook 5 minutes less.
Pigeon peas
Use the same weight; soak 30 minutes and cook 10–15 minutes longer; firmer and earthier.