Bengal gram is a yellow lentil that is rounded on one side and flat on the other. It is closely related to chickpeas. Bengal gram is one of the first legumes to be cultivated. Chana Dal is the name given to it in Indian cuisine. Bengal gram is an important element in Indian vegetarian cuisine. It is mostly used in the preparation of curries. Unripe grams are harvested and eaten as a snack in southern India, while the leaves are used to make salads.

Bengal gram is a popular alternative to animal or meat protein since it is a protein-rich supplement. The consumption of Bengal grams on a regular basis aids in the reduction of protein deficiency. It also aids in the reduction of blood cholesterol levels. Because of its low glycaemic index, chana dal is beneficial to diabetics.