Black Lentils
🌿 proteinsEasy to use

Black Lentils

Indian subcontinent — black lentils (urad dal when split) have been a protein staple in South Asian cooking for thousands of years. Beluga lentils are a North American cultivar.Available year-round driedEarthy, slightly nutty, and mildly sweet with a firm bite. More complex and flavorful than green lentils. Retains shape beautifully after cooking.

Did You Know?

Dal makhani — one of India's most beloved dishes — is made from whole black lentils slow-cooked overnight with butter and cream. The long cooking time is essential to its velvety richness.

Overview

Indian subcontinent — black lentils (urad dal when split) have been a protein staple in South Asian cooking for thousands of years. Beluga lentils are a North American cultivar. · Available year-round dried · proteins

Tiny, jet-black lentils known as beluga lentils for their resemblance to beluga caviar. Hold their shape perfectly when cooked, making them ideal for salads and elegant side dishes.

Indian subcontinent — black lentils (urad dal when split) have been a protein staple in South Asian cooking for thousands of years. Beluga lentils are a North American cultivar.

Origin

Available year-round dried

Season

Easy

Difficulty

proteins

Category

Flavor Profile

Earthyslightly nuttyand mildly sweet with a firm bite. More complex and flavorful than green lentils. Retains shape beautifully after cooking.

Storage Tips

Store dried in airtight container for up to 1 year. Cooked lentils refrigerate for 5 days or freeze for 3 months.

Photo Gallery

How to Cook with Black Lentils

Recipes, pairings, substitutes, and professional tips

Cooking Tips

No soaking needed. Cook 20–25 minutes until tender but still holding shape. Season after cooking. Excellent in salads with vinaigrette, or serve warm with roasted vegetables.

Best Pairings

roasted beetsgoat cheesevinaigrettethymeshallotswalnuts

Substitutes

Green lentils (for shape), French lentils (puy), brown lentils

Nutrition & Health Benefits

The nutritional profile and health properties of Black Lentils

Nutrition Highlights

fat

0.4

carbs

20

fiber

7

protein

9

calories

116

Quick Facts

Categoryproteins
OriginIndian subcontinent — black lentils (urad dal when split) have been a protein staple in South Asian cooking for thousands of years. Beluga lentils are a North American cultivar.
SeasonAvailable year-round dried
DifficultyEasy

Health Benefits

Excellent source of plant protein, iron, folate, fiber, and manganese. Rich in anthocyanin antioxidants. Supports cardiovascular health.

Black Lentils Photos

4 photos showcasing Black Lentils in its many forms

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Black Lentils

proteins

OriginIndian subcontinent — black lentils (urad dal when split) have been a protein staple in South Asian cooking for thousands of years. Beluga lentils are a North American cultivar.
SeasonAvailable year-round dried
DifficultyEasy

Flavor Notes

Earthyslightly nuttyand mildly sweet with a firm bite. More complex and flavorful than green lentils. Retains shape beautifully after cooking.

Pairs Well With

roasted beetsgoat cheesevinaigrettethymeshallotswalnuts

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