Moong (Green Gram) and Masoor (Red Lentil) are two of the most commonly consumed legumes worldwide. Both are packed with essential nutrients and are widely used in various dishes, making them a staple in many diets, especially in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. These legumes are not only delicious but also offer a variety of health benefits. They are known for being an excellent source of protein, fibre, and vitamins. Whether used in soups, salads, or curries, Moong and Masoor provide a nutritious and versatile addition to meals.
Moong, or Green Gram, comes in several varieties, each with unique characteristics. The most commonly available types are:
Masoor or Red Lentil is available in various forms. Some of the most common types include:
Moong (Green Gram)
Moong beans are low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them ideal for weight management and overall health. Here is the approximate nutritional content of 100 grams of whole moong (raw):
Red lentils are also a rich source of protein and offer a range of vitamins and minerals. The approximate nutritional values of 100 grams of raw masoor (split red lentils) are:
Moong Dal Soup: A comforting soup made from a split green gram cooked with spices.
Moong Dal Khichdi: A common dish in Indian households, made with moong dal and rice, offering a light and nutritious meal.
Sprouted Moong Salad: Raw sprouted moong beans combined with vegetables and seasoned with lemon and herbs.
Moong Flour (Besan): Used in pancakes, fritters, and even sweets like laddus or halwa.
Masoor Dal Curry: A flavorful curry made with split red lentils and spices, a popular dish in South Asian cuisine.
Masoor Soup: A nourishing soup with lentils, vegetables, and seasoning.
Masoor Salad: A light, nutritious salad made with boiled lentils, vegetables, and herbs.
Lentil Stews: Masoor is often used in stews, combined with meat or vegetables for a hearty meal.
Cosmetic Uses: Both moong and masoor are sometimes used in face packs and scrubs for their skin benefits, especially for their antibacterial and exfoliating properties.
Animal Feed: Both legumes are often used as fodder for livestock due to their protein-rich content.
Flour & Baking: Moong dal flour (besan) is commonly used in gluten-free baking, and masoor flour can be used in various bakery items.
Both moong and masoor are excellent plant-based protein sources, making them ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
Moong beans are known for their high fibre content, which aids in digestion and helps maintain gut health.
Masoor dal also contains a good amount of dietary fibre, which promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation.
Moong beans contain low fat content and are rich in potassium and magnesium, which help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Red lentils are also heart-healthy due to their fibre content, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
Both legumes are low in fat and high in protein and fibre, helping with satiety and promoting weight loss by reducing hunger cravings.
Moong is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which help boost the immune system and fight off infections.
The vitamins in masoor, such as vitamin C, contribute to overall immunity and skin health.
Moong is believed to have detoxifying properties, helping to cleanse the liver and remove toxins from the body.
The fibre in both moong and masoor also assists in the removal of waste products from the intestines.
Moong and masoor contain essential minerals and vitamins that promote healthy, glowing skin.
The proteins and antioxidants found in these legumes help repair skin and combat aging.
Due to their low glycemic index, both moong and masoor are excellent food choices for people with diabetes, as they help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Moong (green gram) is a small, green legume, while masoor (red lentil) is typically red or orange. Moong is often used in its whole or split form, whereas masoor is mainly found in a split, peeled form and cooks faster.
Yes, both moong and masoor are healthy and can be consumed daily as part of a balanced diet. They provide a rich source of protein, fibre, and essential nutrients.
To cook moong dal, rinse it thoroughly and boil it in water with a pinch of turmeric and salt until soft. You can then add tempering with ghee or oil and spices like cumin, garlic, and hing.
Yes, both moong and masoor are low in calories and rich in protein and fibre, which help promote feelings of fullness and support weight management.
While both legumes can be used in a variety of dishes, moong takes longer to cook and has a different flavour profile compared to masoor. However, they can sometimes be swapped, keeping in mind the texture differences.
To sprout moong, soak the beans overnight, drain the water, and place them in a damp cloth or sprouting container for 1-2 days until they sprout.