H is for...

For H, I choose a simple vegetable that combines the flavors of harbhare and coconut. Harbhare, or chana as called in Hindi, is used in a funny context. When friends praise you and you start walking on clouds, they will say, “Aye, chane ke zaad pe mat chadna”. Usal is any preparation that uses cooked sprouts. Usually, usal is prepared by making a “vatan” – a mixture of veggies, coconut, and spices. You can add tomatoes to make gravy.

Harbharyachi Usal

Ingredients
1.1 cup harbhare/chana
2.½ cup grated coconut
3.1 onion
4.1 tsp cumin seeds
5.1 tsp mustard seeds
6.Pinch of asafoetida
7.½ tsp turmeric powder
8.1 tsp red chilli powder
9.1 tsp garam masala powder
10.1 tbsp cut jaggery
11.Salt to taste

Method
1.Soak one cup of harbhare overnight.
2.Pressure cook for 3 whistles. Drain all the water.
3.Take around 10-15 harbhare and grind them in the mixer. Finely chop the onion.
4.Heat a pan. Add the grated coconut and cumin seeds and fry till the coconut turns light brown.
5.Heat oil in a pan. Add the mustard seeds. When they splutter, add asafoetida and turmeric powder.
6.Add onion and fry till it turns golden brown.
7.Now, add the harbhare, the grinded harbhare, salt, jaggery, red chilli powder, and garam masala powder. Mix thoroughly.
8.Add the grated coconut, cumin seeds mix. Add ½ cup of water.
9.Cook till the water evaporates. Garnish with coriander.

Chana Chaat: You can use some harbhare to make this chatpata chat. Take some harbhare, add finely chopped onion and tomatoes, red chilli powder, salt, and pepper.