Maharashtrian Gopalkala Recipe (Curd Poha With Fruits)
Description:
Gopalkala is a refreshing and wholesome Maharashtrian recipe that combines flattened rice (Poha) with creamy curd (yogurt), seasonal fruits, and a delightful tempering of spices. Traditionally prepared as a prashad for the auspicious occasion of Krishna Janmashtami, this dish is often enjoyed as a nourishing breakfast or an afterschool snack, especially by children. The recipe brings together the sweetness of pomegranate, the crunch of fresh cucumber, and the richness of coconut, making it a light yet fulfilling treat. In Maharashtrian households, it’s common to include raw peanuts and anardana (pomegranate seed powder) for extra flavor, creating a beautiful balance of textures and tastes. This dish is an easy, nutritious option for anyone seeking a quick, vegetarian meal with a hint of festive tradition.
Cuisine: Maharashtrian
Course: Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened Rice) | 1 cup |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/2 cup |
| Cucumber (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh Coconut (scraped) | 1/4 cup |
| Anardana Powder (Pomegranate Seed Powder) | 1/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) | 2 teaspoons |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 5 leaves, finely chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Serves: 2
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Poha:
- Start by washing the Poha (flattened rice) thoroughly under running water. Allow it to drain in a colander, ensuring that the Poha is soft and not too wet. You can also place the colander over a bowl to catch any excess water.
-
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained Poha. To this, mix the finely chopped cucumber, grated fresh coconut, anardana powder (pomegranate seed powder), curd (yogurt), salt, and sugar. Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly combined. The yogurt adds a creamy texture, while the cucumber and coconut bring freshness and crunch.
-
Prepare the Tadka (Tempering):
- Heat a small tadka pan or skillet on medium heat. Add the ghee and let it melt. Once the ghee is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Next, add the chopped curry leaves, raw peanuts, and finely chopped green chilies to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about a minute, allowing the peanuts to slightly toast and the spices to infuse the ghee.
-
Combine and Serve:
- Pour the tempering (tadka) over the Poha mixture and give everything a gentle toss. Ensure that the spices and ghee are well distributed throughout the dish. Taste for seasoning and adjust the salt or sugar if needed.
-
Serve:
- Serve the Maharashtrian Gopalkala immediately as a refreshing breakfast or as an energizing afterschool snack for kids. You can garnish it with extra pomegranate seeds or fresh coconut for an added touch of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180-220 kcal |
| Protein | 4-5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25-28 grams |
| Fiber | 2-3 grams |
| Fat | 8-10 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2-3 grams |
| Sodium | 150-200 mg |
| Sugars | 6-8 grams |
Tips & Variations:
- Fruit Variations: You can enhance the dish by adding other seasonal fruits like mango, banana, or apple, depending on what’s available. This makes the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the curd with a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt.
- Make it Spicier: If you like a spicier kick, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili powder to the tempering.
- Tempering Variations: For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with adding mustard seeds or asafoetida (hing) to the tempering.
This Maharashtrian Gopalkala recipe is not only a delicious and nutritious way to start the day but also a celebration of traditional flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether it’s for a festive occasion or a simple, healthy meal, this dish is sure to be a hit!
