Crispy Green Bean Usali: A Flavorful South Indian Stir-Fry

1 hour

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4.34 from 3 votes

About Crispy Green Bean Usali: A Flavorful South Indian Stir-Fry

Craving a vibrant, flavorful bite? This Crispy Green Bean Usali, a beloved South Indian dish, delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, perfect as a snack or alongside rice and sambar.
Tender green beans and protein-packed chana dal are tossed with aromatic spices, creating a simple yet unforgettable dish. It's a healthy and delicious way to experience the authentic tastes of South India.
This easy recipe transforms everyday pantry staples into a nutritious and exciting meal. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
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Recipe Time & More

Prep30 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total1 hour
Calories588 kcal
Serves2
Served AsLunch
Recipe TasteCrunchySaltySpicy

Ingredients
 

Beans and Dal Mixture

  • 12 Beans finely chopped, green
  • 1 cup Split Chickpea split chickpeas, soaked in water for 30 minutes
  • 3 Chillies dried, red
  • 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste

Tempering

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Instructions
 

  • In a mixer or food processor, coarsely grind the dried red chilies and soaked chana dal. This creates a flavorful base for the usali.
    Crispy Green Bean Usali: A Flavorful South Indian Stir-Fry - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Add the chopped green beans and salt to the ground mixture. Mix well to combine.
  • Pressure cook the green bean mixture with 1 tsp of oil until the beans are softened. Adding oil helps prevent sticking and keeps the beans moist.
  • Heat the remaining oil in a kadai or large skillet over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. This releases their characteristic nutty aroma.
  • Add the curry leaves to the hot oil and sauté briefly until fragrant.
  • Add the cooked green bean and dal mixture to the skillet. Stir well to coat everything in the flavorful oil.
  • Cook the mixture for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes crispy and lightly browned. This develops a wonderful texture and enhances the flavors.
  • Serve the Crispy Green Bean Usali hot as a snack or as a side dish with steamed rice and sambar.

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

  • For an extra crunchy texture, spread the steamed chana dal mixture on a pan and dry roast it on low heat for a few more minutes before combining with the sautéed beans.
  • If you prefer a milder version, replace some of the red chillies with dried Kashmiri chillies to retain color but reduce heat.
  • To prepare Beans Paruppu Usali in advance, cook and store the steamed dal crumble and sautéed beans separately; mix and reheat just before serving to preserve the crispness.
  • For a unique flavor twist, add a tablespoon of grated coconut during the final mixing stage—this is a popular variation in some Tamil Nadu households and adds a subtle sweetness.

Expert Tips

  • Soaking the chana dal for at least 30 minutes before steaming ensures a softer, more digestible final product.
  • Adjust the amount of mustard seeds and curry leaves based on your preference. More of each adds a stronger, more pungent flavor.
  • Don't overcook the green beans. They should remain slightly crisp even after sautéing.

Storage Instructions

  • Store leftover Beans Paruppu Usali in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4.34 from 3 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 588kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 24gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7.8gMonounsaturated Fat: 15.6gSodium: 1710mgFiber: 15gSugar: 2g

Priya Iyer(Anitha)
Priya Iyer(Anitha)

A foodie who likes to explore different aspects of the gastronomic universe

Articles: 50
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4.34 from 3 votes

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