Dals

dals In India, the word dal refers to any legume: dried beans, dried peas, and lentils, though used precisely the term means only dried split peas. Dals are sold whole or split; split dals cook more quickly and generally do not require a preliminary soaking. Dals may be sold hulled (skinned) or unhulled; if possible, buy hulled (skinned) dal, also known as washed dal, as it cooks more quickly.