The Dal Index

Masoor Dal

also known as red lentil

Orange going in, gold coming out. No soaking, no pressure cooker required, done in fifteen minutes flat — the best effort-to-reward ratio in the lentil world.

Cook time

~15 minutes

Texture

Creamy, collapses completely

Flavor

Earthy, savory, deep

Best for

Quick dals, soups, weeknight anything