Sprouted Moong Indian Curry: A Nutritious and Flavorful Staple

I love having sprouts in my fridge all the time. Soon, I'll be posting a guide on how to make your own sprouts at home. Sprouts are packed with nutrients, high in protein, and rich in various minerals. They're easy to add to salads, but I also enjoy incorporating them into traditional Indian curry dishes. One such dish is Moong Usal, a staple in many Indian homes. This plant-based vegan delicacy features a curry or medium-thickness gravy that's both simple and easy to make. I love its savory taste and its versatility for any meal of the day.

If you follow a plant-based or vegan diet, getting enough protein can be a constant struggle. That's why I prefer incorporating naturally high-protein foods into my diet rather than relying on protein powders. This dish is perfect for any meal, providing a substantial protein boost to keep you full and healthy throughout the day.

I love using my Instant Pot for quick recipes, but if you don't have one, you can steam the moong in a steamer for 10-15 minutes or use a pressure cooker (1 whistle), then continue with the rest of the recipe in a pan.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sprouted moong

• 1/2 onion, chopped

• 1/2 tbsp ginger garlic paste

• 1 tomato, chopped

• 1/4 tsp asafoetida

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• Salt, to taste

• Cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in the Instant Pot on sauté mode and add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splatter.

2. Add the chopped onions and tomatoes, and sauté until they are soft.

3. Add the ginger garlic paste and continue sautéing until the raw smell disappears.

4. Add the sprouted moong and 3 tablespoons of water.

5. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook for about 5 minutes.

6. Once done, garnish with cilantro and squeeze some lemon juice over the top.

This recipe works well with any sprouts. Prepare it over the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. The total cooking time is just 10-15 minutes, making it a quick and healthy addition to your meal plan.