Urad Dal Chilka Hara

Advance Information*

Introduction

Urad Dal Chilka Hara, brought to you by the esteemed brand MAYUR, stands as a paragon of quality in the extensive world of legumes. This meticulously selected green-split black gram is specifically processed to cater to the culinary needs and preferences of consumers who desire both nutrition and taste in their meals. Urad Dal Chilka Hara, packaged in a convenient 500 GM format, promises to deliver the quintessential pulse experience, marrying traditional culinary delight with contemporary packaging and quality standards.

What is Urad Dal Chilka Hara?

Urad Dal Chilka Hara, commonly known as green-split gram or chilka urad dal, is a variety of black gram (Vigna mungo) where the black outer skin is retained on the split legumes. Unlike its skinned counterpart, the chilka version retains more nutrients, offering a rich, hearty flavor and bountiful health benefits. These pulses are small, oval-shaped, and possess a unique dark green coat with a creamy interior.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Urad Dal has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries. Its deep-rooted significance in various regional delicacies, from the classic ‘Dal Makhani’ of North India to the humble yet nutritious ‘Dal Tadka’, speaks volumes about its versatility. This variety, Chilka Hara, combines the rustic, earthy flavors treasured throughout South Asia with modern culinary applications, providing both traditional taste and contemporary appeal.

Nutritional Profile

1. High Protein Content: Urad Dal Chilka Hara is a powerhouse of protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to meet their daily protein requirements.
2. Dietary Fiber: The high fiber content aids in effective digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
3. Essential Minerals: Rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium, this dal helps in maintaining overall health and vitality.
4. Antioxidants: The organic compounds present in the dal act as antioxidants, aiding in the prevention of a variety of health issues.
5. Low Glycemic Index: Suitable for diabetics, as it helps in regulating blood sugar levels.
6. Vitamins: Packed with Vitamin B complex, it supports energy release and efficient metabolic processes.

Health Benefits

1. Digestive Health: Urad Dal Chilka Hara is known for its high soluble and insoluble fiber which helps in digestive health by preventing constipation and maintaining a healthy digestive tract.
2. Bone Health: The calcium and magnesium present are essential for maintaining bone density and overall skeletal health.
3. Cardiovascular Benefits: Chilka urad dal helps maintain cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular health.
4. Weight Management: The high protein and fiber content contribute to satiety, which may aid in weight management and obesity prevention.

Culinary Applications

1. Dal Preparations:

   • Dal Tadka: A fragrant and flavorful dish where the dal is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices like cumin and garlic.
   • Dal Makhani: A rich, creamy dal cooked with butter, cream, and a variety of spices, making it a quintessential part of North Indian cuisine.

2. Soups and Stews: Adds a hearty texture and nutritional boost to various soups and stews, making them more filling and flavorful.

3. Fermented Foods:

   • Idli and Dosa Batter: Ground with rice, Urad Dal Chilka Hara can be fermented to make fluffy idlis and crispy dosas, popular South Indian breakfast items.

4. Snacks and Savories:

   • Vada: This dal is used in making Medu Vada, a deep-fried, savory doughnut, often served with coconut chutney and sambar.
   • Papad: Urad dal papads are thin, crispy accompaniments that enhance the taste of main dishes.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

1. Soaking: For optimal cooking, soak the dal for at least 4-5 hours or overnight. This reduces cooking time and makes the dal more digestible.
2. Pressure Cooking: Pressure cooking significantly reduces cooking time. Once soaked, it generally takes about 10-15 minutes to cook completely in a pressure cooker.
3. Seasoning and Spicing: The dal can carry a wide range of spices, herbs, and aromatics, from cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garlic to ginger and fresh cilantro.
4. Temper after Cooking: For richer taste, temper the cooked dal with ghee or oil, mustard seeds, curry leaves, dry red chilies, and asafoetida (hing).

Quality Assurance

Packaged by MAYUR, the Urad Dal Chilka Hara undergoes stringent quality checks