This Usal is a comforting, aromatic mung bean curry that brings the warmth of home-style Indian cooking to your table. The dish relies on the earthy depth of cooked mung beans, elevated by a fragrant base of tempered cumin seeds, ginger, garlic, and onions. Spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin powder create a rich, golden flavor profile, while a hint of cayenne adds gentle heat. The texture is soft yet substantial, making it an ideal companion to steamed rice or warm flatbreads. It is a satisfying, protein-rich meal that comes together quickly, perfect for busy evenings or when you crave wholesome, plant-based comfort food.
Usal (A Mung-Bean Curry
Description
This Usal is a comforting, aromatic mung bean curry that brings the warmth of home-style Indian cooking to your table. The dish relies on the earthy depth of cooked mung beans, elevated by a fragrant base of tempered cumin seeds, ginger, garlic, and onions. Spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin powder create a rich, golden flavor profile, while a hint of cayenne adds gentle heat. The texture is soft yet substantial, making it an ideal companion to steamed rice or warm flatbreads. It is a satisfying, protein-rich meal that comes together quickly, perfect for busy evenings or when you crave wholesome, plant-based comfort food.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and chopped green chile; cook until the seeds pop.
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Add 1 finely chopped medium onion, 1 grated inch of ginger, and 3 minced garlic cloves.
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Sauté until the onions turn pink and soft.
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Add 1 chopped medium tomato and sauté until softened.
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Stir in 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1 pinch turmeric, and optional cayenne to taste.
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Fry the spices briefly for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
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Add 1 cup of cooked mung beans and 1 cup of water (or reserved bean cooking liquid).
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Season with salt to taste and stir well.
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Cover and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until the beans are tender and the flavors meld.
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Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
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Serve hot with rice or flatbread.
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
Storage: This curry freezes well. Allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Ingredient Tip: If you do not have pre-cooked mung beans, soak dried mung beans overnight and boil them until tender before proceeding with the recipe.
Variations: Adjust the heat level by adding more green chilies or cayenne pepper according to your preference.
