Description
Ingredients
| Nutrients | Calories 116 Total Carbohydrate 20 g Dietary fiber 8 g |
|---|---|
| Minerals | Magnesium Cobalamin |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fats | 0.4g |
Red lentils, also known as masoor dal, are a type of legume that appears orangey-red in color. They are a popular choice in many cuisines, particularly Indian, due to their relatively short cooking time and tendency to break down into a creamy consistency. Red lentils are often found split, without their skins, which contributes to their quick cooking time. They are a good source of protein, iron, and folate, and studies suggest they offer various health benefits.
Key Characteristics:
- Appearance: Orangey-red in color.
- Flavor: Nutty flavor.
- Texture: Tend to break down into a creamy consistency when cooked, especially when split.
- Cooking time: Split red lentils cook relatively quickly, often in 5-7 minutes.
- Common names: Known as masoor dal in Hindi and Urdu.
- Nutritional Value: Excellent source of protein, iron, and folate.
Culinary Uses:
- Dahl/Dal: Frequently used in Indian dahl or daal recipes.
- Soups: Excellent for making hearty soups.
- Purees: Can be used to create creamy purees and sauces.
- Spreads: Can be incorporated into spreads and dips.
Health Benefits:
- Heart health: May reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Diabetes management: Studies suggest they can help manage blood sugar levels.
- Weight management: May aid in weight management.
- Cancer prevention: Some studies suggest they may have a role in cancer prevention, particularly breast cancer.
