Is Alasande Usli healthy?

Yes, it is very healthy. It's rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber from black-eyed peas, which aids in digestion and keeps you full. It's also packed with essential minerals.

Can I make this without a pressure cooker?

Absolutely. After soaking, you can cook the black-eyed peas in an open pot with sufficient water. It will take about 45-60 minutes for them to become tender. Check for doneness periodically.

Can I use canned black-eyed peas?

Yes, for a quicker version, you can use one 15-ounce can of black-eyed peas. Be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium before adding them in Step 4.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover Alasande Usli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. However, some commercial brands of asafoetida (hing) contain wheat flour, so be sure to use a certified gluten-free brand if you have a sensitivity.

Home / Recipes / south_indian / Alasande Usli

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Alasande Usli

RATING

4.4/5(67)

TASTE SCORE

7/10

A wholesome and savory stir-fry from Karnataka made with tender black-eyed peas, fresh coconut, and a simple tempering. It's a perfect protein-rich snack or a light side dish, ready in under 30 minutes of active time.

PREP

15m

COOK

20m

SERVES

1 CUP

159 cal

SERVINGS

INSTRUCTIONS

5 steps. 20 minutes total.

5 STEPS

1
Step 1
- a.Soak and Cook the Black-Eyed Peas
- b.Rinse 1 cup of dry black-eyed peas thoroughly. Soak them in 4 cups of water for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight.
- c.Drain the soaking water. Transfer the peas to a pressure cooker, add 2 cups of fresh water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- d.Pressure cook on medium heat for 2-3 whistles, about 10-12 minutes. The peas should be soft but hold their shape.
- e.Once the pressure releases naturally, drain any excess water and set the cooked peas aside.
2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Oggarane)
- b.Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a kadai or pan over medium heat.
- c.Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter completely, which takes about 30 seconds.
- d.Add 1 teaspoon of urad dal and sauté until it turns a light golden brown, about 45-60 seconds.
- e.Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of asafoetida and 10 curry leaves. Sauté for another 15 seconds until fragrant.
3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Add the finely chopped medium onion and 2 slit green chilies to the pan.
- c.Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent.
4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Season
- b.Add the cooked black-eyed peas to the pan along with 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- c.Gently mix everything together, being careful not to mash the peas.
- d.Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the peas to absorb the flavors of the spices.
5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Garnish
- b.Turn off the heat. Add 1/4 cup of freshly grated coconut and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix well.
- c.Garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Serve the Alasande Usli warm as a nutritious snack or as a side dish with rice and sambar.

PRO TIPS

What to keep in mind.

5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.

1
Soaking the peas is essential for even cooking and a tender texture.
2
Do not overcook the peas. They should be soft enough to bite but retain their shape for the best texture.
3
Freshly grated coconut provides the most authentic and delicious flavor, but frozen (thawed) or desiccated coconut can be used as a substitute.
4
Adjust the number of green chilies to suit your personal spice preference.
5
For a no-onion version, simply skip the onions. The dish will still be flavorful.

RECIPE VARIATIONS

Adapt it for your goals.

Ingredient Substitution

You can use dried red chilies in the tempering instead of green chilies for a different kind of heat and flavor.

Flavor Addition

Add 1/2 teaspoon of jaggery (gud) along with the salt to introduce a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the savory and tangy notes.

Vegetable Addition

Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely chopped carrots or bell peppers along with the onions for added nutrients, color, and texture.

Protein Variation

This recipe works well with other legumes like chickpeas (chana) or whole green gram (moong). Remember to adjust the soaking and cooking times accordingly.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why this is on our healthy list.

muscle

Rich in Plant-Based Protein

Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, building tissues, and overall body function, making this a great dish for vegetarians and vegans.

leaf

High in Dietary Fiber

The high fiber content from the peas promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.

heart

Source of Essential Minerals

This dish provides important minerals like iron, which is vital for preventing anemia and carrying oxygen in the blood, and potassium, which supports heart health and blood pressure regulation.

QUESTIONS?

Frequently asked questions

One serving of Alasande Usli (approximately 1 cup) contains around 240-260 calories, making it a healthy and filling snack or side dish.

PAIRS WELL WITH

Complete meals featuring this recipe

fusion·5 min·347 cal

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Alasande Usli

For 4 servings

5 steps. 20 minutes total.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5