Chana dal, a type of split chickpea popular in Indian cuisine, is known for its nutty flavour and firm texture. When looking for substitutes for chana dal, consider these options across different categories:
Best: Yellow Split Peas
Yellow split peas are the best substitute for chana dal in terms of texture and cooking properties. They have a similar earthy flavour and firm texture when cooked. Yellow split peas can be used in most recipes that call for chana dal, such as dals, soups, and stews.
How to Use
- Rinse and soak yellow split peas before cooking, as you would with chana dal.
- They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust as needed.
- Use in a 1:1 ratio for chana dal in recipes.
Cheapest: Red Lentils
Red lentils, while softer and quicker to cook than chana dal, are a more affordable and widely available substitute. They break down more easily, making them ideal for soups and stews where a creamy texture is desired.
How to Use
- No need to soak red lentils; rinse and cook directly.
- Adjust the cooking time as red lentils cook faster than chana dal.
- Ideal for dishes where the lentils are meant to be soft or pureed.
Tastiest: Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas)
Toor dal, or split pigeon peas, offers a delicious alternative with a slightly sweet and earthy flavour. It holds its shape well and is commonly used in Indian cooking, making it a great choice for traditional dishes.
How to Use
- Rinse and soak toor dal as you would chana dal.
- It has a cooking time similar to chana dal, making it easy to substitute in recipes.
- Use in soups, dals, and curries for a rich, flavourful dish.
Most Accessible: Canned Chickpeas
Canned chickpeas, though differing in texture, are a convenient and accessible substitute. They are already cooked and can be added directly to dishes, saving preparation time.
How to Use
- Drain and rinse canned chickpeas before using.
- Add them towards the end of the cooking process as they only need to be heated through.
- Suitable for salads, stews, and quick curries.
Most Unusual: Black Eyed Peas
Black eyed peas offer an unusual but effective substitute for chana dal. They have a unique, slightly sweet flavour and a creamy texture when cooked, adding a different dimension to dishes.
How to Use
- Soak black eyed peas before cooking, similar to chana dal.
- They have a cooking time comparable to chana dal.
- Ideal for hearty soups, stews, and as a protein-rich addition to salads.