To the vegetarians; how do you prepare your rice and lentils?

Soak lentils for a few hours, add lentils and fresh water to a pot, slightly cover and bring to a boil. I also add various spices like cardamom, coriander, black pepper, cumin, salt, etc. I tend to use recipes, but when I'm making food from my head I season as I go. I prefer my dal very thick, not soupy like some people. For rice, I use ratios I find online. My boyfriend likes to saute uncooked rice in some oil and onions, then add water and cook until the water is gone. It tastes very good, and honestly, I love adding ketchup to rice.