8 January, 2025
Different Types of Dals and Their English Names
Different Types of Dals and Their English Names
India is known for its diverse culinary traditions, and dals (lentils and legumes) form a cornerstone of its cuisine. Dals come in various types, each with its unique flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. Below is a guide to common dals and their English names.
1. Arhar Dal / Toor Dal (Pigeon Pea Lentils)
- English Name: Pigeon Pea Lentils
- Description: These yellow lentils are split and commonly used in Indian households. They have a mild flavor and are often prepared as a staple curry dish.
- Popular Dishes: Dal Tadka, Sambhar
2. Masoor Dal (Red Lentils)
- English Name: Red Lentils
- Description: These are small, orange-red lentils that cook quickly and turn soft when cooked. Masoor dal is known for its creamy texture.
- Popular Dishes: Red Lentil Soup, Masoor Dal Curry
3. Moong Dal (Split Green Gram)
- English Name: Split Green Gram
- Description: Made from dehusked mung beans, moong dal is light, easy to digest, and often used in Indian comfort foods.
- Popular Dishes: Khichdi, Moong Dal Tadka
4. Yellow Moong Dal
- English Name: Yellow Split Mung Beans
- Description: This is a dehusked and split version of mung beans with a mild, earthy flavor. It cooks quickly and is often used for light, nutritious meals.
- Popular Dishes: Moong Dal Halwa, Moong Dal Khichdi
5. Chana Dal (Split Chickpeas)
- English Name: Split Chickpeas
- Description: Chana dal is made from hulled and split black chickpeas. It has a nutty flavor and is widely used in curries, soups, and snacks.
- Popular Dishes: Chana Dal Fry, Dhokla
6. Urad Dal (Black Gram Lentils)
- English Name: Black Gram Lentils
- Description: Urad dal comes in two forms – whole (black lentils) and split (white lentils without the husk). It has a rich, creamy texture when cooked.
- Popular Dishes: Dal Makhani, Idli, Dosa Batter
7. Lobiya (Black-Eyed Peas)
- English Name: Black-Eyed Peas
- Description: These legumes have a distinctive black “eye” on their surface and are mildly sweet in flavor.
- Popular Dishes: Lobiya Curry, Salads
8. Kali Masoor Dal (Brown Lentils)
- English Name: Brown Lentils
- Description: These lentils are unhulled and have an earthy flavor. They are often used in rustic, hearty dishes.
- Popular Dishes: Brown Lentil Stew
9. Moth Dal (Turkish Gram)
- English Name: Turkish Gram
- Description: Moth dal is a tiny, brownish-yellow lentil grown in arid regions. It has a distinct nutty flavor and is often used in sprouted or curry forms.
- Popular Dishes: Moth Dal Curry, Sprouted Moth Salad
10. Matar Dal (Split Peas)
- English Name: Split Peas
- Description: Made from dried, hulled peas, matar dal has a slightly sweet taste.
- Popular Dishes: Matar Dal Curry
11. Kulthi Dal (Horse Gram)
- English Name: Horse Gram
- Description: This is a lesser-known dal that is highly nutritious and used in traditional Indian recipes, especially for soups and health tonics.
- Popular Dishes: Kulthi Dal Soup
12. Bhatt Ki Dal (Black Soybeans)
- English Name: Black Soybeans
- Description: Popular in Uttarakhand, this dal is protein-rich and used in regional dishes.
- Popular Dishes: Bhatt Dal Curry
Understanding the English names of dals can help bridge cultural and culinary gaps, making it easier to incorporate them into international kitchens. Each dal offers unique flavors and health benefits, so adding a variety to your meals can enhance both taste and nutrition.
