Capsicum Usili Recipe (Tamil Nadu Style Capsicum Cooked with Lentils Spice Mix)
A Traditional Tamil Nadu Favorite – Flavored with a Spicy Lentil Mixture
Capsicum Usili is a classic South Indian dish from Tamil Nadu, where tender green bell peppers (capsicum) are stir-fried with a spiced lentil mix, creating a dish that is both hearty and aromatic. This vegetable preparation combines the freshness of capsicum with the earthy flavors of yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils), making it a nutritious and satisfying accompaniment to your meal. The unique spice mix used in this recipe, including fennel seeds, dry red chilies, and curry leaves, offers a delightful blend of flavors that elevate the humble capsicum to something extraordinary.
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and is often served alongside tomato rasam or thakkali vengaya kuzhambu, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1 cup | Soaked for 1 hour |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 2 | Finely chopped |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 | Adjust according to spice preference |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon | |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon | |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig | |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch | |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 4
- Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Soak and Prepare the Moong Dal:
Begin by washing and soaking the yellow moong dal for an hour. After soaking, drain the water and transfer the dal to a mixer grinder. Add the dry red chilies, fennel seeds, and a pinch of salt. Grind the mixture into a coarse paste and set it aside for later use. -
Cook the Capsicum:
Heat oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and urad dal. Allow them to splutter and pop, releasing their flavors. Next, add the asafoetida (hing) and curry leaves to the pan, allowing the aromatic flavors to infuse the oil. -
Stir-fry the Capsicum:
Add the finely chopped green bell peppers (capsicum) to the pan, season with salt, and stir well to coat them in the spices. Allow the capsicum to cook for about 3-4 minutes, letting it soften slightly while retaining its vibrant color and crunch. -
Combine the Lentil Mix:
Remove the cooked capsicum from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil, followed by the coarsely ground moong dal mixture. Cook the lentil-spice mix for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is well-cooked and the flavors have melded together. -
Final Assembly:
Once the moong dal mixture is cooked, add the sautéed capsicum back into the pan. Stir everything together to combine the lentil-spice mix with the capsicum. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully blend. -
Serve:
Once everything is well-combined and cooked through, switch off the flame. Serve the delicious Capsicum Usili hot, along with steamed rice, and pair it with your choice of tomato rasam or thakkali vengaya kuzhambu for a complete and comforting meal.
Tips for a Perfect Capsicum Usili:
- Adjust Spice Level: The number of dry red chilies can be increased or decreased based on your preferred spice level. If you prefer a milder version, remove the seeds from the chilies before grinding.
- Texture of Moong Dal: Ensure that the moong dal mixture is coarsely ground to get the right texture. It should not be too fine; a little grainy texture adds to the appeal of the dish.
- Cooking the Capsicum: Capsicum should retain some crunch, so avoid overcooking it. The quick stir-fry process helps preserve its natural flavor and texture.
This Capsicum Usili Recipe is an excellent way to enjoy the flavors of South India with simple ingredients. It’s not only a healthy addition to your meal but also a dish that captures the essence of Tamil Nadu’s culinary traditions. Enjoy it with some hot rice and a flavorful rasam for a wholesome dining experience!
