Masoor Dal: Nutrition, Uses, Health Benefits & Side Effects

• Masoor dal is a legume rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium and phosphorus.
• Masoor dal in English is known as red lentil and its botanical name is lens culinaris.
• The dal offers several health benefits like stronger immunity, a healthier heart, and better weight management.
• Excessive consumption of masoor dal can lead to a nutritional imbalance, with digestive and gastric problems.

Masoor dal in English is known as red lentil and lens culinaris is its botanical name. It is a legume that is rich in not just flavour but also nutrients.In this blog, you will learn more about masoor dal and explore its types, nutritional value, benefits, and side effects. You'll also find some easy and delicious masoor dal recipes to include in your diet.Let’s get started.

You usually come across two variants of this dal - whole dal and split dal. The properties and benefits of both dal types slightly differ from each other.Whole, unskinned masoor dal is black or brown and called black masoor dal . On the other hand, when the coating is removed and the whole dal is divided into two parts, it becomes split masoor dal.

Wondering what makes masoor dal so healthy? Here is its nutritional value per 100 grams:

: NoteIn addition to the nutrients mentioned above, masoor dal also provides several minerals and vitamins like A, B1, B2, B3, and C.

Here are the benefits of masoor dal that contribute towards your health:

Stronger Immunity

Masoor dal strengthens the natural defence system of your body and enhances your immunity. Thus, you feel more fit and healthy.

Healthier Heart

The dal is said to lower bad cholesterol and regulate blood pressure. Regular consumption of masoor dal in adequate quantities can prevent cardiovascular diseases and contribute to a healthier heart.

Stronger Bones and Teeth

Masoor dal is a source of calcium and phosphorus, contributing to healthy bones and teeth.

Regulated Blood Sugar Levels

Masoor dal helps maintain blood sugar levels and is useful, especially for those with high sugar.

The fibre and protein content in the dal makes you feel fuller for longer. This, in a way, regulates your portions and leads to weight management.

Healthier Pregnancy

Masoor dal may prove to be beneficial for your overall health during pregnancy. Its folate content is said to be crucial for the development of the baby’s spinal cord and brain.

Better Skin Health

Each time you eat masoor dal ,your skin gets the essential nutrients from within. You can also prepare and apply a masoor dal face pack to improve your skin’s suppleness.

While masoor dal contributes to your overall well-being, over-consumption may lead to certain side effects, such as:

Nutritional Imbalance

Over-consumption of masoor dal without proper consumption of other food groups, results in an imbalanced diet.

Digestive Issues

Excessive intake may cause digestion-related issues. Thus, you must regulate the proportion of masoor dal in your diet.

Gastric Problems

You may face gastric issues and experience abdominal pain if your consumption of masoor dal is high.

You can explore different ways of using masoor dal in various food preparations. It not only makes your dish tastier but also richer with vitamins and minerals.Here are two common masoor dal recipes :

Follow the below steps to make a delicious and healthy bowl of soup.

• Step 1: Take a pressure cooker, heat oil, and sauté chopped onions on a medium flame.
• Step 2: Next, add chilli powder and garlic and continue sautéing.
• Step 3: Now, add masoor dal and chopped tomatoes, followed by salt as per taste.
• Step 4: Pour water and pressure cook. Next, turn your gas off after two pressure cooker whistles. Let it rest.
• Step 5: Let the steam escape and open the cooker’s lid.
• Step 6: Make a smooth puree of this mixture and strain it through a sieve.
• Step 7: Transfer the liquid to the pan and heat it for a few minutes.
• Step 8: Your masoor dal soup is ready. Serve it hot.

Experience wholesome goodness with a bowl of home-style masoor dal (red lentil dal). You can quickly prepare it by following the steps below:

• Step 1: Heat oil in a cooking pot and add mustard and cumin seeds.
• Step 2: Sauté chopped onions and add tomatoes, spices and salt.
• Step 3: Now, add the masoor dal and cover the pot with a lid. Pour some water after a few minutes and close the lid again.
• Step 4: Wait for about 15 minutes.
• Step 5: Your masoor dal preparation should be ready. Relish it hot with rice or roti .

With an appropriate blend of vitamins and minerals, masoor dal can help you meet your body’s nutritional requirements. However, be mindful of the quantity consumed. Over-consumption of dal can cause side effects.It is always a good idea to seek professional advice before making dietary changes.Just like the right amount of masoor dal can boost your overall health, the right kind of health insurance coverage can contribute to your well-being. Wondering how?A suitable health insurance plan prepares you financially for medical emergencies. It covers the eligible expenses and helps you avail of quality medical treatment without worrying about last-minute funding.Insure your health today! Also Read: 25 Protein-Rich Foods for Vegetarians