Define Sweetness with These Lentil-Based Indian Desserts 

By Deepali Verma

February 4, 2024

These delicious Indian delicacies are made using lentils as the main component and offer a unique combination of sweetness and nutrition. 

Moong Dal Halwa 

Luxuriously rich and creamy, Moong Dal Halwa is made by sautéing ground moong dal in ghee until golden brown, then cooking it with sugar and milk. It offers a velvety texture and a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness. 

Besan Ladoo 

Besan Ladoo is a traditional Indian treat made from roasted chana dal flour, ghee, and sugar. The dough is formed into balls and baked into circular shapes. Grainy and aromatic, with nutty and sweet undertones and a touch of cardamom for warmth, these ladoos are a true gem. 

Chana Dal Payasam 

The combination of chana dal, jaggery, coconut milk, and cardamom in Chana Dal Payasam elevates the traditional South Indian dessert payasam. The distinctive nuttiness of this dessert is complemented by the robust and comforting texture provided by the dal. 

Chana Dal Barfi 

A delectable creation, Chana Dal Barfi brings together chana dal, khoya, sugar, and ghee. This barfi offers a perfect mix of textures, from the dense richness of khoya to the grainy allure of chana dal. 

Urad Dal Halwa 

The decadent process of making Urad Dal Halwa—which comprises soaking urad dal, grinding it into a paste, and then cooking it with ghee, sugar, and milk—makes it stand out. A thick, velvety halwa flavorful with nuts and typically topped with chopped nuts for crunch.