10 Indian Dals, their nutrition and traditional ways to prepare them

It is impossible to imagine an Indian meal without a bowl of dal, and there’s no denying that it is a quintessential part of Indian cuisine. The addition of dal in Indian meals is not just to add a punch of taste, rather it is packed with the goodness of nutrients that help in boosting overall health and metabolic health. Here are 10 types of dals and their unique health benefits. Read on to find out…

Toor Dal
Toor dal, also known as Pigeon Pea is naturally rich in protein, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and potassium. Toor dal helps in boosting energy levels and supporting muscle health. This dal is used extensively in South India, Bihar and Uttar pradesh to make delicacies like Sambhar, Dal Kaddu or a simple Dosa.

Masoor Dal
Masoor dal also known as Red lentils is extensively used in Indian cooking for its high protein and iron content. In fact, consuming this dal can also help in boosting heart health, improve digestion, metabolism and the presence of fiber helps in better weight management due to its fiber content. This dal is consumed in the eastern part of India, this is because of its light texture and unique taste.


Moong Dal
Moong Dal, also known as Split Green Gram, is a healthy and low-fat source of protein. Adding moong dal to the daily diet can give your body a healthy boost of essential nutrients like vitamins like B1, B2, B3, and B6. In fact, consuming this diet can help lower diabetes, improve digestion and help in weight management. This dal is used to make Chilla, Vadas, Pakoras to name a few.


Chana Dal
Chana Dal, also known as Split Chickpeas, is naturally loaded with high protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Moreover, chana dal supports digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels by providing a sustained release of energy. This dal is traditionally used to make pakoras, dal, chilla or classic delicacies like Dhokar Dalna, lentil cakes, etc.

Urad Dal
Urad Dal is rich in protein, iron, and potassium. Eating this dal helps in boosting energy levels, supports bone health, and contributes to overall muscle function.



Moth Dal
Moth Dal also known as Matki is a good source of high protein, fiber, and antioxidants, moth dal helps in regulating blood sugar levels, improving digestion, and promoting heart health.


Arhar Dal
Arhar Dal also known as Split yellow lentils is a rich source of protein and contains essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and folate. What's more, it supports heart health and aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels



Kala Chana
Kala Chana also known as Black Chickpeas has high protein, fiber, and iron content, which helps in better weight management, improves digestion, and supports overall cardiovascular health.

Rajma
Rajma also known as Kidney beans is rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. It helps in managing blood sugar levels, promoting heart health, and supporting weight loss.

Green Moong Dal
Green Moong Dal, also known as Whole green gram, is a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. It supports digestive health, helps in weight management, and provides sustained energy.