Tamil Nadu Style Capsicum With Lentils Spice Mix (Shimla Mirch Usili)
Recipe in English
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Moong Dal (Yellow Lentils) | 1 cup (soaked for 1 hour) |
| Capsicum (Green Bell Pepper) | 2, finely chopped |
| Dried Red Chilies | 2 |
| Fennel Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Split Urad Dal (White) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Moong Dal Paste:
Begin by washing the moong dal thoroughly. Soak it in water for about 1 hour. After soaking, drain the water and place the dal in a mixer grinder. Add the dried red chilies, fennel seeds, and salt to the grinder. Grind everything into a smooth paste. Set aside.
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-
Cook the Capsicum:
Heat oil in a pan or kadhai. Add mustard seeds and urad dal to the hot oil. Once the mustard seeds start to splutter, let it cook for around 10 seconds. Now, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and the curry leaves. Stir to combine. -
Add Capsicum:
Add the finely chopped capsicum and salt to the pan. Mix well and let it cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the capsicum softens slightly but retains its crunch. Once done, remove the capsicum from the pan and transfer it to a separate bowl. Set it aside. -
Cook the Lentil Paste:
In the same pan, add a little more oil. Then, add the ground lentil-chili paste. Cook this mixture on medium heat for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paste is cooked through and becomes aromatic. -
Combine and Cook:
Add the previously cooked capsicum back into the pan with the lentil paste. Mix well and cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend and heat through. -
Serve:
Once everything is well combined and cooked, remove from heat. Serve the hot Shimla Mirch Usili with a side of steaming rice, tomato-onion sambar, and crispy papad for a complete and flavorful lunch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | ~7g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~300mg |
This Tamil Nadu-style Capsicum Usili is a delicious, nutritious dish packed with proteins from the moong dal and vibrant flavors from the aromatic spices. The unique blend of lentils and spices offers a satisfying yet light meal, perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner. Whether served with rice, sambar, or a crispy papad, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!
