Chawlichi Usal
A comforting Maharashtrian curry made with tender black-eyed peas, simmered in a fragrant and lightly spiced coconut-based gravy. A wholesome and delicious dish, perfect with chapati or rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas
- b.Rinse the dried chawli thoroughly and soak in ample water for 6-8 hours or overnight.
- c.Drain the soaking water. Transfer the soaked chawli to a pressure cooker.
- d.Add 2 cups of fresh water and 0.5 tsp of salt. Secure the lid.
- e.Pressure cook on medium heat for 3-4 whistles, about 10-12 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
- f.Check if the beans are cooked; they should be soft and easily mashable but retain their shape. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- b.Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter completely.
- d.Add the cumin seeds and hing (asafoetida). Sauté for about 30 seconds until the cumin is fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Build the Masala
- b.Add the finely chopped onion and slit green chilies. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
- c.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until its raw aroma disappears.
- d.Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn soft and mushy.
- e.Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and goda masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant and oil begins to separate from the masala.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer the Usal
- b.Pour the cooked chawli along with its cooking water into the pan.
- c.Add the remaining 1 cup of water (or more for a thinner gravy), grated jaggery, and the remaining 0.75 tsp of salt. Stir well to combine.
- d.Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Stir in the grated fresh coconut and chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Mix gently and cook for one more minute.
- d.Check for seasoning and adjust salt or spice if needed.
- e.Serve hot with bhakri (sorghum flatbread), chapati, or steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking the beans overnight is crucial for even cooking and better digestion.
- 2Goda masala is the soul of this dish. If unavailable, you can use garam masala, but the authentic Maharashtrian taste will differ.
- 3The small amount of jaggery is essential to balance the spicy and tangy flavors; do not skip it.
- 4For a richer gravy, you can add a paste of 2 tbsp grated coconut and 1 tsp poppy seeds along with the powdered spices.
- 5To enhance nutrition, use sprouted chawli instead of just soaked ones.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sprouted Version
Use sprouted chawli for a nuttier flavor and increased nutritional benefits. The cooking time in the pressure cooker might be slightly less.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For a richer, creamier texture, substitute the grated coconut with 1/4 cup of thin coconut milk, added at the end of the simmering process.
With VegetablesWith Vegetables
Add diced potatoes, drumsticks (moringa), or brinjal along with the tomatoes to make it a more wholesome curry.
No Onion Garlic VersionNo Onion-Garlic Version
For a Sattvic or Jain version, skip the onion and ginger-garlic paste. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Black-eyed peas are a fantastic source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, building tissues, and overall body function, making this dish great for vegetarians and vegans.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from the beans aids in digestion, promotes gut health, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can help with weight management.
Good Source of Iron
This dish is a good source of iron, a mineral crucial for forming hemoglobin and preventing anemia. Adequate iron intake helps maintain energy levels and cognitive function.
Supports Heart Health
The combination of fiber and potassium in black-eyed peas helps in managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The dish is low in saturated fat, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Goda Masala is a unique Maharashtrian spice blend with a sweet and pungent aroma, containing ingredients like coconut, sesame seeds, and stone flower. While it provides the authentic taste, you can substitute it with a mix of garam masala and a pinch of cinnamon and clove powder, though the flavor profile will change.