
Urad Dal Flour
Urad dal flour, also known as black gram flour, is a creamy white to light beige colored flour milled from dried urad dal lentils. This gluten-free flour boasts a distinctive, slightly earthy and nutty flavor that enriches a variety of dishes. Its fine texture makes it ideal for creating smooth batters and doughs. Urad dal flour is a staple in Indian cuisine, valued for its binding properties and contribution to both savory and sweet recipes. It's a versatile ingredient, perfect for making crispy dosas, fluffy idlis, and delicious lentil-based flatbreads.
Common Uses
- Used to make crispy dosas: Urad dal flour is a key ingredient in dosa batter, lending a unique flavor and crispy texture to the popular South Indian crepes. The fermentation process enhances its digestibility and flavor profile.
- Ideal for preparing fluffy idlis: When combined with rice flour, urad dal flour creates the light and airy texture characteristic of idlis, steamed rice cakes that are a staple breakfast food in South India.
- Employed in making lentil-based flatbreads (rotis/parathas): Urad dal flour can be incorporated into dough for rotis or parathas to add a nutty flavor, protein, and slightly chewy texture. The flour adds nutritional value to the flatbreads.
- Great for thicking soups and stews: A small amount of urad dal flour can be used as a natural thickening agent for soups and stews, adding a subtle flavor and body to the dish. This is a common practice in many South Asian recipes.
- Perfect for making papadums: Urad dal flour is the primary ingredient in papadums, thin, crispy lentil wafers that are often served as an appetizer or accompaniment to meals in India. The flour creates the desired crispness and delicate flavor.
- Used in making vada: Urad dal flour is also a vital ingredient in making Medu vada, a savory donut made from the batter of the flour deep fried until crispy.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
341.0kcal (17.05%)
Protein
25.0g (50%)
Carbs
61.0g (22.18%)
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
1.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
341.0kcal (17.05%)
Protein
25.0g (50%)
Carbs
61.0g (22.18%)
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
1.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein, promoting muscle health and satiety.
- Excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Contains iron, helping to prevent anemia and support energy levels.
- Good source of B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism and nerve function.
- May help lower cholesterol levels due to its fiber and nutrient content.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Urad dal flour is best stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. This helps prevent moisture absorption and keeps the flour fresh. Storing it in the refrigerator or freezer can extend its shelf life, especially in warmer climates. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to avoid absorbing odors from other foods.
Chefadora AI is Here.
Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia