Chana dal, also known as split Bengal Gram, is produced by removing the outer layer of Kala Chana (black chickpeas) and then splitting the kernel. It is slightly larger in size than most other legumes, yellow in colour and has a delicious, mildly sweet and earthy flavour. It is eaten with roti or rice and sabji.

Uses:

– Like all the other dals, it can be boiled and then fried with cumin/ mustard seeds, asafetida, garlic, ginger, onions and tomatoes.
– When roasted, it can be used in the form of snacks and is still very nutritious.
– It can also be powdered to make besan or chickpeas flour, which is used in variety of dishes.
– Chana Dal can also be soaked overnight and later added to the vegetables while they are being cooked to give them a new flavor.
– In Bengal, it is prepared slightly sweet, with coconut pieces.