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Lentils

Also Known As : Daal, pulses
Technical Name : Lens culinaris
Can Eat 0

Vegetarian

Taste Profile

They have a mild earthy, nutty flavour and a somewhat mushy texture when cooked.

Usage Tips

  1. Lentils can be used in soups, salads, or casseroles.
  2. They are easy to prepare and can be added to a variety of dishes.
  3. They can also be consumed with or without the husk.
  4. Lentils should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place. As long as the container is airtight, the lentils will keep for up to twelve months.
  5. Cooked lentils will keep fresh in the refrigerator for about three days if they are placed in a covered container.

Common names and forms

  1. Dal
  2. For Daal
  3. for dal
  4. Ingredients for dal
  5. Lentil Dal
  6. Mix Dal
  7. Mixed dal
  8. Mixed Pulses
  9. Pulses
  10. Whole Lentils

Description

Lentils are basically edible pulses or seeds that belong to the legume family. They mostly have of two halves covered in a husk. They are flat, disk shaped dried beans.They are one of the fastest cooking beans, due to their flatness and size. The dried beans can be in different sizes and colors, such as brown, green, orange, red, and yellow, all of which can be whole or split. They are consumed much more frequently in Asian countries, particularly India. They are available throughout the year. They are believed to have originated in central Asia.

Health benefits

  • Lentils have high levels of dietary fiber, which helps to improve digestion.(1)
  • They contain magnesium and potassium, both of which help in relaxing heart muscles and lowering the blood pressure levels.(1)
  • They are a good source of folic acid, which helps pregnant women in preventing birth defects.(1)
  • They have a high amount of iron, that is needed by the body for optimum hemoglobin production.(1)
  • They are a good source of many vitamins, like vitamin B3, which helps in boosting the digestive and nervous systems.(1)

Selection Guide

They are generally available prepackaged in packets as well as in bulk . Always check the packaging and make sure there is no evidence of moisture or insect damage. Always select lentils of a uniform size, which makes cooking them easier.

Note

People who are allergic to legumes should avoid eating lentils. Excess consumption of lentils can cause abdominal discomfort and gas in the digestive system.(2)

Resource & Links

(1) https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/health-benefits-of-lentils.html

(2) https://foodthesis.com/lentil-health-benefits-and-side-effects/

- Disclaimer
"Information here is provided for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice or product or ingredient review/rating. The information may not apply to you and before you use or take any action, you should contact the manufacturer, seller, medical, dietary, fitness or other professional. If you utilize any information provided here, you do so at your own risk and you waive any right against Culinary Communications Private Limited, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees or representatives.”