Dal, Peeli Dal:

This is the most common type of dal found in India it is simply called Dal or Peeli Dal which means Yellow Dal. It is made of either Chana dal or Tur dal which is boiled in water with with garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin and coriander and then Tarka/ Tadka which is tempering of spices like cumin, coriander, mustard, fenugreek seeds, curry leaves, red chillies and garlic in oil added to it and fried. This is called Dal Tadka.

Kali Dal or Dal Makhani:

Dal Makani also called Kali dal which means black dal is made with a varety of pulses, lentils and beans which are soaked overnight and then cooked slowly, for hours on a low flame or charcoal fire. This gives it a creamy texture. It is further thickened and made rich with dollops of fresh cream and butter. It is also garnished with finely chopped coriander leaves and fresh cream/ butter. It's a thick gravy dal and can be eaten with both Indian flat breads or rice.