Legumes N Grains

Indian Pulses or the Legumes and Lentils are the protein boosters and provide a number of health benefits. They are important sources of fiber, proteins, vitamins, and minerals and an important requirement of balanced diet. 

Legumes N Grains

Urad dal 

Urad dal is the dal that is used to make Idlis and Dosas in South India. It is rich in protein and the iron and frequently used in vegan diets.

Toor dal 

Toor dal is the most important lentil used in almost all Indian homes. It is part of daily diet as it is used to make Dal or Rasam or Sambar and served with rice or chapati. It is yellow in color and is highly nutritious, with high in protein, and vitamins.

Rajma

Kidney beans are healthy and contains high amount of fiber. This is normally eaten by North Indians. 

Green Moong/ Moong Daal /Mung

Moong dal is healthy and rich in nutrients and used in a variety of traditional vegetable dishes. Moong is easy to cook and  relatively easy to digest and suitable for all ages, kids and adults alike. It can be eaten in full or split. There are a variety of dishes that can be done by this legume. Check the link for interesting recipes.

1. Quick Cooking: Moong lentils cook rapidly without the need for soaking for too long,  making them ideal for quick meals.

2. Highly Digestible: They are gentle on the stomach.

3. Rich in Protein and Fiber: Moong lentils are a great plant-based protein source, keeping you full and supporting muscle health.

4. Versatile: Can be used in savory and sweet dishes, from classic Indian dals to pancakes (moong chilla) and even desserts.

5. Low in Fat: They’re naturally low in fat and help support heart health and weight management.

 Chawli / Black eyed Beans

Lohbia are black-eyed beans and also called black-eyed peas. These are rich in fiber and as a high-potassium and can be cooked in variety of ways. Check the link for interesting recipes.

1. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins, chawli supports energy levels, gut health, and overall well-being.

2. Heart-Healthy: Its high fiber content helps reduce cholesterol and supports cardiovascular health.

3. Satisfying & Filling: Ideal for hearty meals, chawli keeps you full longer, making it great for balanced vegetarian or vegan diets.

4. Versatile: Works well in both Indian dishes like chawli curry and global recipes like bean salads or soups.

5. Easy to Store & Cook: Dried black-eyed beans have a long shelf life and, once soaked, cook up fairly quickly with a soft texture.

Kabuli Chana / Chole /

Kabul Kadale or Chickpeas beans are a good source of nutrients. It is loaded with proteins and can be combined with healthy greens to prepare a curry. The all time favourite Chole is made from this legume.

Chana Dal

Also known as Bengal Gram. This is the most popular legume in India. Chana dal is used daily for seasoning in South Indian cooking and to make deserts like Holige and Hayagreeva.

Peas

These are available in white and green color. They are pressure cooked and normally used to make Ragda Patties.

These above lentils and pulses can be stored for long in glass or steel containers with air tight lids , closed to protect it from insects, moisture and heat.

Source: Internet