Indian red lentils, also known as masoor dal, are a popular type of lentil widely used in Indian cuisine. They are small, lens-shaped legumes that range in color from orange-red to pinkish-brown. Masoor dal cooks relatively quickly compared to other lentil varieties and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It's a staple ingredient in many Indian dishes, including dals (lentil soups), curries, and stews.