Green Harbhara Usal

Thin spicy accompaniment using Fresh green gram or 'Harbhara' as it is called in Marathi. 

'Usal' or a thin gravy/curry made using various lentils or pulses is an integral part of Maharashtrian cooking . The way it is prepared can vary in each household but more or less the ingredients are same. Can be served with chapati, poli (Indian flat bread) or steamed rice. Easy in its preparation but extremely delectable and nutritious and protein packed makes it a favourite in many homes. Fresh green gram or 'Harbhara' as it is called in Marathi is available aplenty in the winter months .  Sharing here my simple recipe to prepare the same .

INGREDIENTS:

Fresh green gram or 'Harbhara' 1 Big bowl (Approx 250 gms)

Pinch of baking soda

Freshly grated coconut 2 Tbsp

Oil 2 tsp

mustard seeds 1/2 tsp

Hing powder (asafoetida)  1/2 tsp

Turmeric powder 1/2 tsp 

Ginger garlic paste 1 tsp

Red chilli powder 1/2 tsp

Mutton masala (Any available brand) 1/2 tsp or You can use the Maharashtrian Goda Masala as well 

Salt to taste

Pinch of sugar or little gur (jaggery)

Finely chopped Coriander leaves for garnishing 

METHOD :

1. Clean and wash the Harbhara. Keep aside. 

2. Add sufficient water. Add a pinch of baking soda (So it gets cooked properly)

3. In a pressure cooker, cook the Green gram (Usually 2 whistles and 15 mins on low flame is enough.

4. In a kadai or wok, heat some oil.

5. When the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, hing powder and turmeric powder.

6. Now add the ginger garlic paste n saute a little

7. Add the red chilli powder, goda masala and/or  mutton masala and saute for a min or two.

8. Add sugar or jagerry n salt and saute for a few mins till masalas get cooked . 

10. Add freshly grated coconut and the cooked Green gram and bring to a boil. 

11. Your 'Usal' is ready. Garnish with chopped coriander and serve hot with 'POLI" or 'ROTI" or steamed rice.