Shimmering Capsicum Usili – Tamil Nadu Style with Lentils and Spices
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Usili is a famous Tamil Nadu dish where lentils are cooked with a special spice mix. Though traditionally prepared with beans, today we’re bringing you a unique version made with bell peppers (Shimla Mirch). This simple yet flavorful dish pairs perfectly with South Indian meals. Enjoy the blend of spices and lentils as it brings a burst of flavors to your table!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal (pulses) | 1 cup (soaked for 1 hour) |
| Green Bell Pepper (Shimla Mirch) | 2, finely chopped |
| Dry Red Chilies | 2, broken into pieces |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 tsp |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai) | 1 tsp |
| Split White Urad Dal (Urad Dal) | 1/2 tsp |
| Curry Leaves (Kadhi Patta) | 1 sprig |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Instructions
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Soak the Dal: Begin by rinsing the yellow moong dal thoroughly. Soak it in water for about 1 hour to soften it. Once done, drain the water.
-
Grind the Spice Paste: In a mixer grinder, combine the soaked dal, dry red chilies, fennel seeds, and salt. Grind it into a smooth paste, adjusting the consistency with a little water if needed.
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Prepare the Base: Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and urad dal to the hot oil. Let them splutter for about 10 seconds, then add the asafoetida and curry leaves. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
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Cook the Bell Peppers: Add the finely chopped green bell peppers to the pan along with salt. Mix well and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the bell peppers soften slightly but retain some crunch.
-
Cook the Spice Paste: In the same pan, add a little more oil, then add the prepared dal and chili paste. Let it cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors blend and the paste thickens slightly.
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Combine and Final Cook: Add the cooked bell peppers back into the pan and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the dish to simmer and the flavors to meld together.
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Serve: Serve your Shimmering Capsicum Usili hot with South Indian staples like sambar, rice, and papad. It makes for an ideal accompaniment to a hearty, wholesome lunch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this flavorful dish with Tomato-Onion Sambar, fragrant Steamed Rice, and crispy Papad for a wholesome, satisfying South Indian meal.
Enjoy the delightful burst of flavors in each bite, and let the spices transport you straight to the heart of Tamil Nadu!
