There are many varieties of rice and everyone has their favorite. My favorite is Basmati rice; I like the aroma and texture of Basmati rice. Rice can be very plain or very colorful. Rice is easy to cook and can be served as a side dish or a main dish. Plain rice is served with lentils, dal, or a gravy-based dish.

Indian recipes uses several different dals (lentils) witch are more native to India. Toor dal, also known as Arhar, is a popular dish in almost every household.

Toor dal has a mild, nutty flavor and is cooked as a routine Indian dish and served with bread & rice. Toor dal is highly nutritious, high in protein, and contains vitamin A and vitamin C.

Urad dal has black skin, while the inside is creamy white. This white lentil is rich in protein and the iron content is good for improving hemoglobin count. Urad dal is great for vegan and low fat diets.

Yogurt chutney is great paired with dosas and pudas. It is a great and less time-consuming variation from the more commonly used chutneys, such as coconut chutney.