Which type of pulse is the primary ingredient in masoor dal?

Lentils

Masoor dal refers specifically to red lentils, which are among the oldest known cultivated crops, dating back over 9,000 years. A unique feature of these lentils is that they transform from a vibrant orange-red to a soft golden yellow once they are cooked. They remain a global staple because they are incredibly fast to prepare and packed with plant-based protein.