Ulava Charu: A Flavourful Horse Gram Soup
Ulava Charu is a traditional Andhra horse gram soup known for its earthy flavors and health benefits. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a nutritious and delicious soup. Here’s the recipe in a 2-column format:
Course: Appetizer or Main Course
Cuisine: Andhra
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 120 calories per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 cup horse gram (ulavalu in Telugu)
- 1/4 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Wash and rinse the horse gram and toor dal. Combine them in a pressure cooker with sufficient water and cook for about 5-6 whistles or until they are soft and well-cooked.
- In a separate pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Stir in the green chilies, minced garlic (if using), and asafoetida. Sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the masala for a few minutes until the oil separates.
- Transfer the cooked horse gram and toor dal to the pan with the masala.
- Add water to achieve the desired consistency and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve the Ulava Charu hot.