Chana Dal
Chana Dal – A Nutrient-Rich and Protein-Packed Pulse
Chana dal, also known as split chickpeas, is one of the most popular and nutritious pulses consumed worldwide, particularly in India and South Asia. It is derived from Bengal gram (Cicer arietinum), a legume rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Chana dal has a mild, nutty flavor and a slightly grainy texture, making it an excellent ingredient for a variety of dishes, including soups, curries, and even desserts.
Unlike whole chickpeas, chana dal is dehusked and split, which makes it easier to cook and digest. It is widely used in Indian cuisine for making dal dishes, fritters (pakoras), chilla (savory pancakes), and even flour (besan), which is used in various savory and sweet preparations.
Nutritional Benefits
Chana dal is packed with macro and micronutrients, making it an essential part of a balanced diet. Some of its key nutritional components include:
- High Protein Content – Supports muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Dietary Fiber – Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- Low Glycemic Index – Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Loaded with Vitamins & Minerals – Contains folate, iron, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
- Low in Fat – A healthy, plant-based source of nutrition.
- Dal & Curries – Cooked with spices to make a thick, nutritious stew.
- Snacks & Fritters – Ground into a batter for making pakoras and savory pancakes.
- Flour (Besan) – Milled into fine gram flour, used in sweets, batters, and sauces.
- Stuffing – Used in parathas, stuffed bread, and traditional Indian snacks.
Nutritional Value of Chana Dal (Per 100g)
- Energy: 350 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Dietary Fiber: 11g
- Sugars: 2.7g
- Total Fats: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 4.9mg
- Magnesium: 160mg
- Phosphorus: 320mg
- Potassium: 900mg
- Sodium: 25mg
- Zinc: 2.5mg
- Folate (B9): 120µg
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): 0.3mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.4mg
1. Physical & Chemical Properties of Cumin Seeds:-
| PROPERTIES | VALUES & LIMITS |
|---|---|
|
Scientific Name |
Cicer arietinum (Bengal Gram) |
|
Family |
Fabaceae (Legume family) |
|
Shape & Size |
Small, round, and split (3-6 mm) |
|
Color |
Yellow |
|
Aroma |
Mild, earthy |
|
Taste |
Nutty, slightly sweet |
|
Moisture Content |
≤ 12%
|
|
Essential Oil Content |
4% – 6% |
|
Ash Content |
≤ 4% |
|
Impurities |
≤ 0.5% |
|
Foreign Matter |
≤ 0.2% |
All Chana Dal
2. Export & Shipping Details:-
| Mode of Transport | Packaging Type |
|---|---|
|
Domestic Distribution |
PP Bags, PET Pouches, Paper Boxes
|
|
Bulk Export (Sea Freight) |
25kg – 50kg Jute or PP Bags, Fumigated Pallets |
|
Retail Export (Air Freight) |
Vacuum-sealed pouches or glass jars |
|
Container Load (20ft FCL) |
Can accommodate approx. 12-14 metric tons of cumin seeds |
|
Container Load (40ft FCL) |
Can accommodate approx. 24-26 metric tons of cumin seeds |
Final Thoughts:-
Chana dal is a nutrient-dense superfood that offers numerous health benefits, making it an essential part of a healthy diet. Its high protein and fiber content make it an excellent choice for vegetarians, athletes, and those managing weight or blood sugar levels.
Beyond its nutritional value, chana dal is an incredibly versatile ingredient, used in a variety of dishes, from traditional Indian dals to modern salads and soups. It is easy to cook, delicious, and provides sustained energy, making it a staple in kitchens worldwide.
By incorporating chana dal into your diet, you can enjoy a wholesome, balanced, and flavorful meal that supports overall health and well-being.