Indian Lentils & Beans in Germany – Rajma, Chana, Moong, etc

Why Lentils & Beans Are at the Heart of Indian Cooking

Indian cuisine is incomplete without lentils and beans. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of dal with rice, a spicy rajma chawal, or crispy chana chaat, these humble ingredients form the backbone of daily meals. For Indians living in Germany, finding authentic pulses like toor dal, moong dal, urad dal, chana dal, rajma (kidney beans), and kabuli chana (chickpeas) can sometimes be a challenge.

The good news is – with stores like Anant Supermarkt, these staples are now easily accessible across Berlin and delivered all over Germany. Not only do these legumes bring authentic Indian flavors, but they are also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them ideal for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for wholesome meals.

In this blog, we’ll explore:

The variety of Indian lentils and beans available in Germany
Their role in Indian cooking
Health benefits
Easy recipe inspirations
And where to buy them conveniently online

Exploring Different Types of Indian Lentils (Dal) in Germany

Indian households use lentils almost daily, but what makes them special is the variety. Each dal has a unique flavor, texture, and purpose in cooking. Here are the most common ones you’ll find at Anant Supermarkt and how they’re used:

1. Toor Dal (Pigeon Pea Lentils)

A staple in South Indian kitchens.
Used in sambar, dal fry, rasam and sometimes in khichdi.
Creamy texture when cooked, slightly nutty flavor.
High in protein and potassium, perfect for a balanced diet.

2. Moong Dal (Yellow & Green Variants)

Split yellow moong dal cooks very quickly, making it perfect for light dals and khichdi.
Whole green moong beans are used in sprouts, curries, and even in Gujarati dishes like moong salad.
Easy to digest, often recommended for kids and people recovering from illness.

3. Urad Dal (Black Gram)

Used in iconic South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and vada batter.
Also used in Punjabi dal makhani for its creamy richness.
High in protein, iron, and calcium.

4. Masoor Dal (Red Lentils)

One of the quickest cooking dals.
Mild flavor, used in everyday curries and soups.
Rich in iron, making it a good choice for vegetarians.

5. Chana Dal (Split Bengal Gram)

A favorite in dal tadka, dhokla, vada and even in sweets like besan ladoo.
Has a nutty flavor and gives body to dishes.
Packed with protein and fiber.

At Anant Supermarkt, you’ll find these dals from trusted Indian brands, ensuring the same quality you’re used to back home.

Popular Indian Beans in Germany

Indian cuisine isn’t just about lentils – beans and legumes are equally important. They form the heart of hearty curries and are a great source of plant-based protein. Here are some of the most popular varieties you’ll find at Anant Supermarkt:

1. Rajma (Kidney Beans)

A North Indian favorite, especially in Rajma Chawal.
Rich, creamy, and hearty – simmered with onions, tomatoes, and Indian spices.
Excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
A comfort food for many Indians living abroad.

2. Kala Chana (Black Chickpeas)

Used in chana masala, sundal (South Indian stir fry), and even salads.
Soaked overnight and pressure cooked for best results.
High in protein, low in fat, and keeps you full for longer.
A must-have during festivals like Navratri.

3. Kabuli Chana (White Chickpeas)

Famous for chole bhature, hummus, and stews.
Versatile legume, loved in both Indian and Mediterranean cuisines.
A fantastic source of plant-based protein, folate, and fiber.

4. Black-Eyed Beans (Lobia/Chawli)

Often used in curries and stews in North India.
Soft texture when cooked, absorbs flavors beautifully.
Packed with iron and protein, ideal for vegetarians.

5. Soybeans

Popular in Indian households as soya chunks or soya granules.
Used in curries, pulao, and cutlets.
Known for their high protein content, making them a great meat substitute.

By keeping these beans stocked, you can cook a variety of dishes from comforting rajma chawal to protein-packed chana masala; all from your Berlin kitchen.

Health Benefits & Nutrition of Indian Lentils & Beans

One of the reasons Indian lentils and beans have gained global recognition is not just for their taste, but also their incredible nutritional value. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to add more plant-based foods to your diet, dals and legumes are a powerhouse of goodness.

1. High Protein Content

Lentils like toor dal, moong dal, and urad dal are excellent protein sources.
Beans like rajma and chana provide essential amino acids.
They’re a great alternative to meat, especially for vegetarians in Germany looking for wholesome protein sources.

2. Rich in Fiber

Dals and beans help improve digestion and keep you fuller for longer.
Chana dal, rajma, and kala chana are especially rich in dietary fiber.
This makes them great for weight management and maintaining gut health.

3. Packed with Vitamins & Minerals

Iron & Folate: Found in masoor dal and chickpeas, excellent for maintaining hemoglobin levels.
Potassium & Magnesium: Found in moong dal and kidney beans, great for heart health.
Calcium: Urad dal is particularly high in calcium, supporting bone health.

4. Low Glycemic Index

Lentils and beans release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, preventing sugar spikes.
Perfect for people with diabetes or those monitoring their sugar levels.

5. Supports Heart Health

Regular consumption of legumes lowers cholesterol and supports heart function.
Their combination of fiber, protein, and antioxidants makes them a heart-healthy food choice.

By including a mix of dals and beans in your meals, you’re not just sticking to tradition – you’re also making a conscious step toward a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

How to Cook Indian Lentils & Beans at Home in Germany

Cooking lentils and beans may seem intimidating if you’re new to Indian cuisine, but it’s actually quite simple once you know the basics. At Anant Supermarkt, you’ll find all the ingredients you need, from the dal itself to the spices that give them flavor.

Step 1: Soaking

Lentils like moong dal, masoor dal, and toor dal cook quickly and don’t always need soaking.
Beans like rajma, kabuli chana, and kala chana should be soaked overnight (8–12 hours) to soften them and reduce cooking time.
Soaking also improves digestibility.

Step 2: Boiling/Pressure Cooking

In India, pressure cookers are common, but in Germany, you can use instant pots or regular pots.
Cooking times vary:
- Masoor dal: 15–20 minutes in a regular pot.
- Toor/Chana dal: 25–30 minutes.
- Rajma/Chickpeas: 45–60 minutes (after soaking).

Step 3: Tempering (Tadka)

This is what gives Indian dal its signature taste.

Heat oil or ghee.
Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, garlic, ginger, onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and spices.
Pour this over the boiled dal or beans.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

Dal Tadka with rice or roti is a comfort meal.
Rajma Chawal and Chole Bhature are festive favorites.
Sprouted moong beans can be tossed into salads for a healthy snack.

Cooking Tip:

Always season with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, easily available at Anant Supermarkt, to bring out authentic Indian flavors.

With just a few steps, you can turn simple lentils and beans into flavorful, wholesome dishes that remind you of home.

Why Buy Lentils & Beans from Anant Supermarkt in Germany

When it comes to Indian groceries abroad, quality and authenticity matter the most. At Anant Supermarkt, you don’t just get lentils and beans; you get the same flavors and trusted brands that are found in Indian households. Here’s why Anant is the go-to choice for Indians and food lovers in Germany:

1. Wide Variety

From toor dal and urad dal to rajma, kala chana, and kabuli chana, Anant stocks all the essentials under one roof. You won’t have to compromise or settle for substitutes.

2. Trusted Indian Brands

Anant carries products from reputed Indian brands, ensuring freshness and authenticity. That means the dals and beans you buy here cook, taste, and smell just like they do back home.

3. Affordable Prices

Imported groceries can often be expensive in Germany, but Anant ensures that products are fairly priced so that you can enjoy home-style meals without breaking the bank.

4. Convenience of Shopping

Whether you visit the Berlin store or shop online, the experience is seamless. With delivery available across Germany, you can stock up on your favorite dals and beans from the comfort of your home.

5. Community Connection

Anant isn’t just a supermarket; it’s a space where the Indian, Asian, and Afro communities in Berlin and Germany connect through food. Every dal, bean, and spice reflects a shared cultural heritage.

Indian lentils and beans aren’t just ingredients; they’re the foundation of healthy, comforting, and soulful meals. From the earthy flavors of toor dal sambar to the hearty richness of rajma chawal, every dish carries the essence of India.

With Anant Supermarkt’s wide selection, trusted brands, and convenient delivery options across Germany, you never have to miss out on these essentials. Whether you’re a student missing home-cooked food, a family building traditions in a new country, or a foodie exploring Indian cuisine, Anant ensures you always have the right ingredients at your table.

Indian Lentils & Beans in Germany – Rajma, Chana, Moong & More