Easy Maharashtrian Usal

When we say “easy,” we mean less than 20 minutes from start-to-finish easy! Double the batch and use it with rice, pao, or sev-bhujia for a quick and hearty lunch.

Easy Maharashtrian Usal

This usal can be eaten by itself or with pav or rice! 

Ingredients

• 1 cup mixed sprouts (e.g., moth beans/matki, moong beans, or any lentils)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
• 1–2 green chilies, slit
• 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• Pinch of asafoetida (hing) (ensure it’s vegan-friendly)
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. In a pressure cooker, heat oil, splutter mustard seeds, and sauté chopped onion with green chilies until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste, diced tomato, and spices (turmeric, chili powder, goda masala) and cook until fragrant.
2. Add the sprouts, 1 cup of water, and pressure cook the mixture until two or three whistles.
3. Bring to a boil and then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. 
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Pair it with rice, pav, or sev-bhujia for a comforting meal!