Tata Urad Whole refers to the whole form of Urad Dal, which is black in color and has a slightly tougher texture compared to its split counterpart. It is a variety of lentil that retains its skin, making it a bit more hearty and flavorful. The outer black skin gives it a rich, earthy flavor, while the white inner part of the lentil becomes tender when cooked.
Key Features:
- Brand: Tata is a trusted brand known for providing high-quality pulses and lentils like Urad Whole.
- Appearance: Whole Urad Dal is black in color, with a smooth, oval-shaped body.
- Texture: When cooked, it has a slightly firmer texture compared to split Urad Dal and retains a more robust flavor.
- Nutritional Content: Like all Urad Dal, Tata Urad Whole is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Common Uses:
- Dal Dishes: Whole Urad Dal is often cooked into hearty, spiced dal recipes, sometimes paired with other lentils like Toor Dal or Chana Dal for added texture and flavor.
- Dosa & Idli: While split Urad Dal is more commonly used for making dosa and idli batter, whole Urad Dal can also be used for these preparations, especially for a more rustic and textured batter.
- Curries and Stews: It is used in rich, spicy curry dishes, sometimes cooked with vegetables like spinach (for a dish like "Dal Saag") or with meat in some regional recipes.
- Vadas & Pakoras: Whole Urad Dal can be soaked, ground into a batter, and fried to make delicious crispy fritters like Urad Dal Vada or Medu Vada, a popular South Indian snack.
How to Cook Tata Urad Whole:
- Soaking: To soften the lentils and make them cook faster, soak the Tata Urad Whole for 4-6 hours, or overnight. This helps in better digestion and texture.
- Cooking: After soaking, rinse the lentils, and cook them with enough water in a pressure cooker or a large pot until tender. You may need to cook it for 3-4 whistles in a pressure cooker or simmer it in a pot for about 45 minutes.
- Tempering (Tadka): Heat oil or ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and garlic, and sauté for a minute. Pour this tempering over the cooked Urad Dal, and season it with salt, turmeric, and other spices as per your taste.
Health Benefits:
- Rich in Protein: A great source of plant-based protein, especially for vegetarians and vegans.
- High in Fiber: Helps with digestion and can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
- Good for Bone Health: Contains calcium and magnesium, which are beneficial for bone health.
- Helps in Blood Sugar Control: The fiber content in whole Urad Dal helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Tata Urad Whole is a great choice for adding richness, texture, and nutrition to your meals! If you want a recipe idea or further information on how to incorporate it into your cooking, feel free to ask!