These lentil-like beans have black skins covering creamy white  interiors. They are split and make soups.

Pakistan & India has a long tradition of being raised on dals, legumes and beans due to its vegetarian bent.. This is also the foundation of Buddhism and Jainism popular in  India. Legumes are prepared with spices like cumin, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds and asafetida (either sautéed or "popped" whole in hot oil) to render them fragrant, flavorful and digestible. They are also seasoned with tomatoes and lime juice. They are commonly eaten with rice, breads, vegetables or dairy products.