An Indian meal is considered incomplete unless it is accompanied by Daal, a word that applies to cooked and raw lentils. Daal preparations differ from one part of India to another; each one is equally delicious.

Almost a generic term for comfort food, India’s favorite ‘Khichdi’ (pronounced and spelled in a variety of ways based on the tongue being spoken), in its many avatars definitely fits the bill.
A word that means 'mixture', Khichdi in its most basic version is a combination of basmati rice and moong/mung lentils, with minimum spices and aromatics, simmered in a covered pan till the rice and lentil grain are well cooked.

A culinary specialty that is almost synonymous with the word Parsi is Dhansak Daal (better known as just ‘Dhansak’). Flavored with Indian spices and inspired by ancient Persian cooking methods, it manages to draw attention to an impressive manner of bringing hearty vegetables, a meat of choice and wholesome lentils together in one delicious pot of goodness.

Daal Lentils are a year-round staple not just at our family meals, but in most Indian homes. Add a handful of healthy green spinach to the lentils, and you’ve got a wholesome Palak Chana Daal, ideal as an entree with fragrant Basmati rice. Or serve it as a side to your Indian grills and vegetables along with Indian flatbread.