Danyachi Usal
Veg
Vegan
Contains nuts
A spicy curry made with groundnuts simmered in a flavorful gravy, typical of the Vidarbha region, often paired with rice or bhakri.
Cuisines
Vidarbha
Best for
Lunch
Recipe
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 30 min
Total: 45 min
2-3 servings
Ingredients
| 1 cup | chana dal (split chickpeas) |
| 2 tablespoons | oil |
| 1 teaspoon | mustard seeds |
| 1 teaspoon | cumin seeds |
| 1 pinch | asafoetida |
| 8-10 | curry leaves |
| 2 medium | onions, finely chopped |
| 2 medium | tomatoes, finely chopped |
| 1 teaspoon | turmeric powder |
| 1 teaspoon | red chili powder |
| 1 teaspoon | garam masala |
| 1 teaspoon | jaggery |
| 1 teaspoon | salt or to taste |
| 2 tablespoons | fresh coriander, chopped |
| 1 tablespoon | lemon juice |
Instructions
- 1 Rinse the chana dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 2-3 hours.
- 2 Drain the soaked chana dal and set aside.
- 3 Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- 4 Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- 5 Add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
- 6 Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- 7 Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- 8 Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
- 9 Add the soaked chana dal and mix to combine with the spices.
- 10 Add about 1 cup of water, salt, and jaggery. Stir well.
- 11 Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat until the dal is cooked and the water is absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
- 12 Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to prevent sticking.
- 13 Once the dal is cooked, add lemon juice and garnish with fresh coriander.
- 14 Serve hot with rice or chapati.
Tips
Adjust the consistency of the usal by adding more or less water according to your preference.