Dal Kanda (kaanda / कांदा ) is a speciality from Maharashtra. This is the traditional dish of Saoji community (also spelt as Saoji, Souji, Sauji), having their origins in Malwa region.
This Dal is traditionally spicy. You can adjust the spice to your desired levels.
It is not required to pre cook the dal. The dal has to get cooked along with the spices.
To avoid excess oil, I have pre roasted the onions in my cast iron skillet. However this is my personal choice. You can use extra oil and roast the onions directly after the tempering is done.