Urad dal, also known as black gram, is a lentil-like pulse that originated in India. It's oval-shaped, about 1/4 inch long, and has a black skin and a creamy white interior. The black skin gives urad dal its strong, earthy flavor. Urad dal is a staple food in northern India and is used in many popular dishes, such as dosa, papadum, and dal makhani.