Indian Lentils and Dal Explained
A beginner-friendly guide to the most common lentils used in Indian cooking and how to use them.
The Most Common Indian Lentils
Red Lentils (Masoor Dal)
Quick cooking lentils that break down easily and create smooth dal.
Moong Dal
Light and easy to digest, often used in simple everyday dals.
Toor Dal
One of the most common dals used in South Indian cooking.
Chana Dal
Split chickpeas that hold their shape and add texture.
Urad Dal
Rich lentils used in dal makhani and some batters.
Whole Lentils
Lentils with skins that hold shape and give heartier texture.
Which Dal Should Beginners Start With?
If you're new to Indian cooking, start with:
- •red lentils
- •moong dal
- •toor dal
These cook easily and are very forgiving.
Cooking Differences
Some lentils cook quickly while others take longer: **Fast cooking (15–25 min):**
- •red lentils
- •moong dal
**Medium cooking (25–40 min):**
- •toor dal
- •chana dal
**Slow cooking (45–90 min):**
- •urad dal
- •whole lentils
Pressure cookers or Instant Pots can reduce cooking times significantly.
Basic Dal Cooking Method
Most dal recipes follow this pattern:
- 1Rinse lentils
- 2Add water
- 3Simmer until soft
- 4Add salt and spices
- 5Finish with tempering (tadka)
What is Tadka?
Tadka is hot oil poured over cooked dal with spices like:
- •cumin seeds
- •mustard seeds
- •garlic
- •chilli
This adds aroma and depth.
Common Mistakes
- •Not rinsing dal
- •Adding salt too early (can slow cooking)
- •Using too little water
- •Not cooking until fully soft
- •Skipping tempering
Storage Tips
- •Store dry lentils in airtight containers
- •Keep in a cool dry cupboard
- •Most dried lentils last 1–2 years
- •Older lentils may take longer to cook
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dal in Indian cooking?
Dal refers to both dried lentils and the dishes made from them. In Indian cooking it usually means a lentil stew cooked with spices.
What is the difference between dal and lentils?
Lentils are the ingredient, while dal often refers to the prepared dish. In India the word dal is also used to describe split lentils.
Which dal is best for beginners?
Red lentils (masoor dal) and moong dal are best for beginners because they cook quickly and become soft without much effort.
Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?
Most split lentils like red lentils and moong dal do not need soaking. Harder lentils like chana dal or whole urad dal may benefit from soaking.
Why do you rinse dal before cooking?
Rinsing removes dust and excess starch and helps the lentils cook more evenly.
How long does dal take to cook?
Cooking time depends on the type:
- •Red lentils: 15–20 minutes
- •Moong dal: 20–25 minutes
- •Toor dal: 30–40 minutes
- •Whole lentils: up to 90 minutes
Final Thoughts
Lentils are one of the easiest ways to cook healthy vegan Indian meals. Once you understand a few types you can cook many different dishes with confidence. Most Indian homes cook dal several times per week because it is simple, nutritious, and versatile.
Recipes to try next
Coconut dal with kidney beans
Coconut dal with kidney beans features earthy lentils and hearty beans, simmered in a creamy coconut sauce enriched with spices. This dish is comforting and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
Slow cooker dal
Slow cooker dal is a nourishing blend of yellow split peas, aromatic spices, and tomatoes, creating a hearty meal. The slow cooking method ensures a rich texture and deep flavour, perfect for serving with rice or flatbreads.
Spicy Lentil Bean Stew
This hearty stew combines split red lentils and white beans with a rich coconut milk base, infused with North Indian spices. Its creamy texture and aromatic blend make it a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings.
Bengali Phulkopir Aloo Dalna
A Indian vegan dal made to taste rounded, savoury and properly cooked, with the lentils giving the dish its body rather than sitting in a thin sauce. This is the kind of family-style cooking that rewards patience and a careful hand with the masala.
Instant Pot Chana Masala
A proper vegan chana masala built on a well-cooked onion and tomato base, warm spices and chickpeas simmered until they absorb the masala. This is generous family-style cooking, made for serving hot with rice, roti or naan.
Creamy Red Lentil Dahl
A Indian vegan dal made to taste rounded, savoury and properly cooked, with the lentils giving the dish its body rather than sitting in a thin sauce. This is the kind of family-style cooking that rewards patience and a careful hand with the masala.