When it is the topic of Indian lentils, there are tremendously many options that one might find. Even more so, they are very different from each other with respect to the place they usually are grown at, with their taste and how they are cooked, and much more.

Indian lentils are believed to have a high nutritional profile and lot many health benefits. They are believed to be the eatables that are tasty, healthy, filling, nutritional; all at once! So, let’s explore the types of Indian lentils or dal that are extremely nutritious and healthy to include in the daily diet.

Lentils are supposed to have a tremendous amount of nutritional values than just being into protein diets. Apart from that, lentils are also a source of bodybuilding vitamins and minerals as well. Depending upon the place they come from, their tastes vary and so do their contents.

1. Black-eyed Peas: 

One cup of black-eyed peas has nutrients worth a Caesar salad! That is how effective these beans are. The black-eyed peas contain 198 calories and 1 gram of fat as per se the research and the data. The Fat and protein present in it is completely healthy and is needed in one’s daily diet. It is also very famous for having a good amount of fibre that is capable of controlling the cholesterol level of heart patients and diseases. These lentils are high in sodium content as well. Sodium helps manage body balance, apart from being an essential nutrient in a balanced diet.

2. Chickpeas:

Chickpeas are one of the most commonly consumed peas in India that have eventually found their place in the UK as well. Chickpeas are believed to be high in protein intake and are also trusted by bodybuilders who are vegan. Chickpeas contain thiamin, folate and healthy fats. It one of the most nutritious legumes that everyone must include in their diet to have proper balanced nutrition in the diet.

3. Black Chickpeas: 

Dark brown Chickpeas are also known as Kala Chana or Bengal Gram are smaller in size than the yellow chickpeas. One-half cup of dried brown chickpeas, which yields about 1 cup cooked, has 360 calories, 5 grams of fat, 60 grams of carbohydrates, 17 grams of fibre and 19 grams of protein. The brown chickpeas add a lot of value to the soups when made at times of sickness. Not just that, these also can be boiled and eaten as chat. 

4. (Chana Dal) Split Chickpeas:

Chana Dal nutritional profile contains essential molybdenum mineral. They are also a very good way to obtain soluble fibre and a great way to obtain manganese, copper, protein, folate, supplement B1, phosphorus, supplement B5 and potassium. The split chickpeas are used in a lot of eatables in India. Some of the famous Indian recipes which use Chana dal are chana dal pulao, chana dal kofta curry, cutlets, dal, it can also be fried and eaten as a snack. It is also one of the main bases of taste inducing agents in many dishes. The split chickpeas have high proteins and also vitamins as the basic necessity. The vitamins and minerals that are present are the best for diabetic patients as well, as they have almost no sugar level yet give the energy needed.

5. Whole Moong Beans:

These legumes have a lovely taste and flavour. Moong legumes are extremely rich in nutritional content. It is a rich source of proteins and one of the best legumes to have when you are not feeling well or want to have a simple and light meal. Moong Beans also contain a good amount of fibre which will help you lose some weight, make you feel fuller for longer, help in proper digestion and improve overall health. It’s a very basic legume that takes place in the staple diet of almost all Indians. You can also sprout moong beans. Sprouted moong beans are also highly healthy. You can prepare moong curry, sprouted moong curry, boiled or sprouted moong chat, moong pulao and much more.

6. Moong Dal (Small green lentils):

When you divided whole Moong beans (as shown in the picture above), we get Moong Dal. Split Moong dal contains light green colour skin and a slightly yellow coloured body. It is easy to cook and takes less to get cooked as compared to other dals. It’s a good source of protein and fibre making it a healthy choice to include in our diet. One very famous Indian snack named Mangodi or green lentil pakora is prepared with this dal.

7. Split Pigeon Peas (Toor Dal): 

Split pigeon peas also known as Toor dal is one of the main lentil used in Indian cooking. It is used in preparing dal which is had with rice. Also, some special delicacies like Pooran Poli is prepared with split pigeon peas. Pigeon peas are highly nutritious as it contains a good amount of protein, fibre, iron, calcium and carbohydrates. Toor Dal is also an excellent source of folic acids which is very essential for fetus growth during pregnancy.

8. Kidney Beans: 

Kidney beans are also known as Rajma. Rajma is an excellent legume that contains high nutrition value. It is an incredible combination of protein, fibre, carbohydrates and fat. It needs to be pre-soaked and used for cooking. Rajma Chawal is one of the most famous dishes prepared with Rajma beans in the North of India. You can also prepare Rajma pulao, Rajma Tikki, Rajma curry and many more. Include these super healthy Kidney beans in your diet and full fill your body’s nutrition demand.

9. Red Lentils:

Though small in size, Red lentils are a healthy superstar of the lentils family. They're fibres healthy and contain a wholesome amount of protein‚ - making them a healthy option for meats alternative for vegetarians. Red Lentils are also full of vitamin B, folic acid, phosphorus, minerals, magnesium, zinc oxide, and blood potassium. These happen to be worth a steak of protein when it comes to the nutrition that it serves. Include this super healthy Red lentil in your diet and stay healthy and fit.

10. Whole black lentils:

Whole black lentils are known as urad beans in India. It is also known as Mungo beans. Urad bean is grown in good quantity in South Asia. Whole black Lentil’s magnesium content places a vital role in the line of its beneficial health effects. Urad beans are low in calories, an excellent source of iron, protein, polyphenols and folate. They need to be soaked before cooking. Maa Ki Daal the famous Punjabi dal recipe is prepared using urad beans. It’s a must-try recipe and the taste, aroma and flavour will definitely make your taste buds dance in happiness. 

The benefits of lentils vary from one type to the other, but the prime things being- they are always rich in protein, iron and fibre. They are the perfect source of protein for vegans, vegetarians and also trusted by a lot of bodybuilders and weightlifters. Not just that, all type of lentils and dal are now easily available in online grocery stores. You can order in big quantity and easily store them in airtight containers. The shelf life is long and you can enjoy them whenever you want. 

We at justhaat.com offer all types of dals and lentils at the best price. Whether it be rice, atta, spices or ready meals we have a huge collection of Indian groceries all for you. So head to our online grocery supermarket and start stocking up all your monthly grocery essentials now!

Eat healthily, stay healthy & happy!

Until next time stay safe.

Khichdi is the most comforting food in India, where it is one of the most loved dishes across India. It is the most preferred healthy food yet yummy and tasty. The main ingredients of khichdi are rice, lentils, and veggies, which are cooked with tempered spices. Every region's cooking style is different, and they have their own variety. Nowadays, many variations are added to humble khichdi, and everyone loves those new additions too. Crave a bowl of healthy, delicious and sumptuous homemade comfort food. Here let us discuss about including khichdi in your diet:

Benefits of Khichdi

Khichdi is one of the most nutritious and best Indian food, where it is a mixture of rice and a variety of lentils like yellow, green or red split lentils. The light amount of spice is made as a comforting meal for grown-ups when they are sick. It is best for sick people, children and older people as it is easy to digest, healthy, and tasty too. It is a great meal to consume even when you are well. Khichdi is made of simple compositions, and it is considered as the necessary thing edible in sickness. Here is the list of amazing health benefits of Khichdi that you are not aware of.

• One-pot meal

As you are childhood, you have heard your mother or grandmother saying that Khichdi is good for your health. Well, it is right. Khichdi is not only a mixture of rice, lentils and veggies but the source of different nutrients such as carbohydrates, vitamins, dietary fibres, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. It is a one-pot meal loaded with wholesome goodness. You can enhance its nutritional values and taste by adding different vegetables and a dollop of ghee.

• Easy to cook

Khichdi is a meal for all seasons which is easy to cook and needs very less preparation time. It is the perfect combination of rice, dal or other grains and dal like bajra, broken wheat etc. It is a quick, balanced and wholesome meal that is cooked in a very quick time. Also, with its nutritional value, it helps to maintain health.

• Easy to digest

Khichdi, with its wholesome ingredients prepared with light spices, which made it easy on the stomach and intestines. This makes it an ideal meal for sick people. It is full of nutrition and is also a perfect source for children, sick and older people. Khichdi can surely be a great option for change from spicy food.

• Part of the Trisohic routine

Khichdi is a part of the Ayurvedic diet because it can balance three doshas – Vatta, Pitta and Kapha. This makes it a part of Tridoshic routing. Khichdi calms the digestive system and detoxifies it. Also, the ingredients in Khichdi will help to boost immunity, energy and maintain a healthy digestive system.

• Free of Gluten

People, who do not want to add gluten to their food, can go for Khichdi. As the rice or lentils does not contain any gluten. It is helpful for people who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Celiac disease gives rise to several gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients who have rapid symptoms of this disease can opt for a gluten-free diet. Khichdi aids in weight loss and prevents ailments like steatorrhea and diarrhoea.

• Reduces blood sugar levels

Khichadi significantly reduces blood sugar levels. The ingredients in Khichdi, such as lentils, lower your blood glucose levels and improve your body’s response to carbohydrates which benefits people with diabetes.

Here are some of the most famous khichdi of India

• Moong dal Khichdi

Moong dal Khichdi is a comforting and healthy meal made with rice and lentils. It is an all seasonal food which is good for your health. This dish is made by blending wheat kernels and moong dal in the cooker. It is prepared by adding some spices for taste which really makes it a tempered dish. Also, this is a diabetic-friendly dish that is easy to prepare. You can have it for dinner or lunch.

•  Masala Khichdi

Masala khichdi is a healthy and spicy variation that is coupled with types of dals, vegetables and tempered with spices and ghee. The preparation method of this khichdi is simple. Masala is a consistency of bay leaf, green cardamom, turmeric, cloves, cumin and asafoetida. Everyone loves spicy masala khichdi.

• Bajra Khichdi

Bajra Khichdi is a Rajasthani khichdi with a unique flavour of taste as it does not use rice. The main ingredient of this Khichdi is sorghum (Jowar) or Bajra (millet). Usually, it is served with accompaniments like Lehsun (garlic) chutney or pickles, curd. Some people love to eat their Bajra khichdi with some roasted dry fruits.

• Bissi Bele Baath

Bissi Bele Bath kichadi is a spicy dish prepared with rice, Arhar dal, jaggery, veggies, tamarind, curry leaves and spices. Bissi Bele Baath originates from the Indian state of Karnataka. The spiciest ingredients are loved by all, and you will really love this. When you cook this, your family members will ask you to prepare this dish again and again. It is as delicious as you think.

• Gehun Ki Bikaneri Khichdi

Gehun Ki Bikaneri Khichdi is made by blending wheat kernels and moong dal. It is prepared in pressure cooking with tempered Indian spices. This recipe is a part of Rajasthan. This is the place, people mostly prefer to eat more wheat than rice, and many of their dishes consist of wheat. Gehun Ki Bikaneri Khichdi is best for diabetic patients as well. It is easy to prepare.

• Pongal

Ven Pongal or Kara Pongal is the most popular dish in the state of Tamil Nadu. In most parts of the country, it is a breakfast rather than lunch or dinner. Its ingredients are mustard seeds, ginger and asafoetida. This dish is garnished with cashews for the added taste. This dish is easy to prepare. It is delicious and loved by all age groups of people.

• Bengali khichuri

Bengali khichuri is a dish from Bengal made with rice, roasted moong dal, ginger and ghee. Usually, it does not contain any onion or garlic and is offered as Prasad for puja. Many of them like to eat plain khichuri, and some prefer to add potatoes, peas, tomatoes or any healthy vegetables of their choice. Prepare this delicious dish and enjoy the flavoured taste.

Khichdi is one of the most famous dishes of India, which is prepared almost in every household. Everyone's taste is different, and everyone prefers to prepare the different varieties. When you have all the ingredients in hand, you can prepare it easily and quickly. Also, you will enjoy eating this delicious dish. The main ingredients needed to prepare khichdi are rice, dal, spices, ghee, oil, etc. You can buy these ingredients from Justhaat.com one of the best online Indian grocery store in UK.

JustHaat is one of the largest Online Asian grocery supermarkets where you can get the best quality groceries at low prices. Also, JustHaat offers a huge collection of different Indian rice like basmati rice, Sona masoori rice, ponni rice, brown rice, red rice, sticky rice and much more. Get all your monthly groceries essentials at your doorstep with justhaat.com. So shop now and enjoy the convenience of online grocery shopping with JustHaat!