Bihari Style Kadhi Badi Recipe: A Flavorful and High-Protein Vegetarian Delight
Bihari Style Kadhi Badi is a comforting, flavorful dish from the state of Bihar in India. This recipe features two essential components: the hearty ‘badi’ (fried gram flour dumplings) and the rich, tangy ‘kadhi’ (a yogurt-based curry). The badi is made with chickpea flour and spices, deep-fried to golden perfection, and then simmered in a spicy and tangy kadhi gravy. This dish is not only high in protein but also offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Perfect as a side dish, Bihari Style Kadhi Badi pairs wonderfully with jeera rice or masala khichia for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Bihari Style Kadhi Badi
For the Badi (Fried Dumplings):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gram flour (besan) | 1 cup |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1 tsp |
| Kalonji (Onion Nigella Seeds) | ยฝ tsp |
| Turmeric powder (haldi) | ยฝ tsp |
| Onion, chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chili powder | To taste |
| Sunflower oil (for deep frying) | As needed |
| Water | ยฝ cup |
For the Kadhi (Yogurt-based Curry):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) (sour) | 1 cup |
| Gram flour (besan) | 2 tbsp |
| Turmeric powder (haldi) | ยฝ tsp |
| Red chili powder | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 2 cups |
For Tempering (Tarka):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cumin seeds (jeera) | 1 tsp |
| Dry red chilies | 3 whole |
| Curry leaves | A few |
| Ginger-garlic paste | 1 tsp |
| Sunflower oil | 2 tsp |
Instructions for Preparing Bihari Style Kadhi Badi
Step 1: Prepare the Badi (Fried Dumplings)
- In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), ajwain, kalonji, turmeric powder, chopped onion, salt, and red chili powder.
- Gradually add water to the mixture and stir until you form a thick, smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into hot oil.
- Let the batter rest for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Kadhi (Yogurt-based Curry)
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the curd (yogurt), gram flour (besan), turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and 2 cups of water.
- Beat the mixture well until it is smooth and lump-free. If you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add more water at this stage. Set aside.
Step 3: Tempering (Tarka) for Kadhi
- Heat 2 teaspoons of sunflower oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the dry red chilies and sautรฉ for a minute or until they release their aroma.
- Add the curry leaves and ginger-garlic paste. Cook for another 2 minutes until the ginger-garlic paste becomes fragrant.
Step 4: Cooking the Kadhi
- Pour the prepared kadhi mixture into the pan with the tempering. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice the kadhi thickening as it simmers.
Step 5: Fry the Badi (Gram Flour Dumplings)
- While the kadhi is simmering, heat a kuzhi paniyaram pan or a deep frying pan with enough sunflower oil to cover the badi dumplings.
- Once the oil is hot, drop a tablespoon of the badi batter into each hollow hole of the kuzhi paniyaram pan or fry them in the deep pan. Fry on each side until the badi turns golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, remove the badi dumplings from the oil and set them aside on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Step 6: Combine Badi with Kadhi
- Add the fried badi dumplings to the simmering kadhi. They will soak up the flavorful gravy and become tender while maintaining their shape.
- Cover the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat to allow the badi to soak in the kadhi.
Step 7: Serve
- Once the kadhi and badi are ready, turn off the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve the Bihari Style Kadhi Badi hot with steamed jeera rice, kachumber salad, and masala khichia for a truly delightful meal.
Tips and Variations
- Texture of Badi: If you prefer softer badi, you can slightly reduce the frying time or skip deep frying and opt for steaming instead.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your spice preference.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, substitute curd with plant-based yogurt and ensure that the oil used for frying and tempering is free of animal-derived products.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Bihari Style Kadhi Badi is a traditional dish that captures the essence of Biharโs rich culinary heritage. The combination of crispy badi and smooth, tangy kadhi creates a comforting dish that will surely be a hit in your home. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a festive occasion, this recipe will always stand out with its vibrant flavors and textures. Enjoy the authentic taste of Bihar with this simple yet delicious dish!
