kulith

Kulith, also known as kulthi or horse gram, refers to the seeds of Macrotyloma uniflorum, an annual legume widely cultivated in the Indian subcontinent and parts of Africa. The seeds are small and can range in color from pale brown to dark brown. Kulith is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to grow in poor soils, making it an important crop in arid regions. The plant also serves as a forage crop and contributes to soil nitrogen through fixation.

Cultivation and uses: Kulith is typically grown as a short-duration crop, often after the onset of the monsoon. It is well adapted to hot, dry climates and is commonly intercropped with cereals. The seeds and their dehulled dal are used in cooking. Kulith dal is a staple in various regional Indian cuisines and is also employed to prepare soups, stews, and porridge. Sprouted seeds are used in salads and as garnishes, and flour ground from the seeds is used for flatbreads and snacks.

Nutritional profile: Kulith is high in plant-based protein and provides dietary fiber and minerals such as iron and calcium. It has a relatively low glycemic index and is often included in vegetarian and vegan diets. Processing steps such as soaking and cooking reduce anti-nutritional factors and improve digestibility.

See also: Legumes, Horse gram.