This traditional Usal is a comforting, aromatic curry made with tender cooked mung beans simmered in a robust blend of spices. The dish features the earthy warmth of cumin and coriander, balanced by the bright heat of green chilies and the pungency of fresh ginger and garlic. It is a staple of Indian vegetarian cuisine, offering a rich texture and deep, complex flavors that pair perfectly with flatbreads or rice. Ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want something wholesome and satisfying for the whole family, this recipe is simple to prepare using ingredients you likely already have on hand. It is a reliable comfort food that you will come back to again and again.
Usal (A Mung-Bean Curry
Description
This traditional Usal is a comforting, aromatic curry made with tender cooked mung beans simmered in a robust blend of spices. The dish features the earthy warmth of cumin and coriander, balanced by the bright heat of green chilies and the pungency of fresh ginger and garlic. It is a staple of Indian vegetarian cuisine, offering a rich texture and deep, complex flavors that pair perfectly with flatbreads or rice. Ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want something wholesome and satisfying for the whole family, this recipe is simple to prepare using ingredients you likely already have on hand. It is a reliable comfort food that you will come back to again and again.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Saut&# 195;© until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
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Stir in the grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped green chile (if using). Cook for another minute until aromatic.
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Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture becomes slightly mushy, about 5 minutes.
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Pour in the cooked mung beans along with their cooking liquid (or water). Stir well to combine.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the curry thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust salt to taste.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 18.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 3.6mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.2g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.6g7%
- Sugars 2.0g
- Protein 1.1g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Save the water from cooking the mung beans; it contains nutrients and adds body to the curry. If using canned beans, rinse them and use plain water instead.
Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper and green chile. For a milder version, omit the chile entirely.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serve hot with chapati, roti, naan, or steamed rice. A squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving adds a nice brightness to the dish.
