Paruppu Usili is a traditional dish originating from Tamil Nadu, India, and it is particularly associated with Tamil Brahmin cuisine, also known as Iyer cuisine. Paruppu in Tamil menas lentils like toor dal, chana dal . Usili means crumble in Tamil . Beans paruppu usili is a dish prepared with lentil crumble and seasonings. Here's more information on this traditional dish:

1. Paruppu Usili primarily consists of two main components: soaked and ground lentils (usually split pigeon peas, also known as toor dal) and finely chopped vegetables (commonly beans, cluster beans, or cabbage). The lentil paste is seasoned with spices like mustard seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves, then steamed or fried along with the chopped vegetables.

2. To prepare Paruppu Usili, the lentils are soaked, ground into a coarse paste, and mixed with spices. This paste is then steamed or fried until it forms a crumbly texture. Meanwhile, the vegetables are sautéed separately with spices until they are partially cooked. Finally, the cooked lentil mixture is added to the vegetables and further cooked until the flavors meld together.

3. Paruppu Usili is highly nutritious due to its combination of lentils and vegetables. It provides a good balance of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome and satisfying dish.

4. Paruppu Usili holds cultural significance in Tamil Brahmin cuisine and is often prepared during festivals, weddings, and other special occasions. It is also a staple dish in everyday meals for many Tamil Brahmin households.

5. : While Paruppu Usili is traditionally associated with Tamil Brahmin cuisine, variations of this dish can be found in other South Indian cuisines as well, with slight differences in ingredients and preparation methods based on regional preferences.

Ingredients:

2 cups of finely chopped beans

1 tsp mustard seeds

1 red dry chilli for tempering

1 tsp split black gram

1/2 tsp asafoetida/hing powder

1 tsp turmeric powder

salt to taste

2 tbsp oil

1/2 cup of bengal gram or a mix of both bengal gram and red gram ( chana dal and tuvar dal)

2 small dry red chillis to be ground with the soaked dal.

Method

• Start by washing the dals and soaking them in water for an hour or two .

• After an hour, drain the soaked dals completely. Coarsely grind the drained dals with red chillies, salt, asafoetida powder, and a little turmeric powder.

• The resulting paste should have a grainy texture, as shown in the picture.

• Set this coarse paste aside. Keep a idli cooker on steam , grease a plate or a container, spread the ground lentil mixture, place inside the cooker, cover and steam till done . open the idli cooker, check whether the dal mixture is cooked, it must not be sticky , remove and allow to cool before you crumble the mixture .

• meanwhile wash and chop the beans finely , cook the beans in a pressure cooker by adding very little water, salt , and pressure cook for only one whistle .

• open cooker immediately by carefully releasing the pressure .

• drain into a colander for any water . keep aside .

• In a broad pan, add some oil, mustard seeds, split black gram, and red chilli. add the cooled crumbled lentil mix , sautee in the tempering .

• Then, add the cooked drained beans to the pan. mix with the crumbled lentil well . adjust salt if needed . when the dals and the beans have mixed well , remove and serve .

• Serve it with rice and Mor Kootan/Mor Kuzhambu.

Overall, Paruppu Usili is not only a delicious and nutritious dish but also a symbol of the rich culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu and the cultural traditions of Tamil Brahmins.

Beans paruppu usili is a nutritious dish primarily because it combines two healthy ingredients: beans and lentils. Here are some reasons why beans paruppu usili is considered nutritious:

1. Protein-rich: Both beans and lentils are excellent sources of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and immune function.

2. Fiber: Beans and lentils are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and helps with weight management by promoting satiety.

3. Vitamins and minerals: Beans and lentils are rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. These nutrients play crucial roles in maintaining overall health, including supporting immune function, energy production, and bone health.

4. Low in fat: Beans and lentils are naturally low in fat, particularly saturated fat, making them a heart-healthy food choice.

5. Antioxidants: Both beans and lentils contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

6. Versatility: Beans paruppu usili typically includes various spices and herbs, adding flavor and additional nutrients to the dish. Ingredients like turmeric, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida not only enhance the taste but also offer health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Overall, beans paruppu usili is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

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