India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, Jamaica, Mauritius, Fiji and India have a long and rich history of eating lentils. But now lentils have become quite popular in Europe and America and other countries as well. A look at archaeological evidence shows that pulses were the highlight of a meal in the Indus Valley Civilization, which dates back to about 3300 BC.
Mushar dal can also be mentioned in ancient Indian texts like the Rig Veda, which dates back to about 1500 BC. It is also quite easy to prepare, it is rich in protein, carbs and fiber. It is a staple food for vegetarians in India. Lentils are common to eat in most homes as India is the largest producer of pulses in the world. Lentils are used in many traditional dishes such as dal makhani, sambar, rasam, payasam, etc.
Pulses also have cultural and religious significance. Daal is served at weddings and other special occasions. It is also served as ‘prasad’ at religious festivals.
