Lobia Masala (Chora nu Shak) Recipe
Lobia Masala, also known as Chora nu Shak in Gujarati cuisine, is a flavorful and protein-rich dish that is perfect for everyday meals. This simple, yet aromatic curry can be packed for lunch or served as part of a wholesome dinner. The tender black-eyed peas (lobia) are cooked in a mix of fragrant spices, offering a delightful blend of savory and sweet notes, with a hint of tang from lemon juice. This dish pairs beautifully with Tawa Paratha and a refreshing Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black-eyed peas (Lobia) | 1 cup |
| Tomato puree | 1/2 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Fresh ginger, peeled and grated | 1-inch piece |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves |
| Green chilies, finely chopped | 2 |
| Cinnamon stick | 1-inch piece |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tsp |
| Jaggery | 1 tsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Olive oil | 1 tsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves | For garnish |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 35 minutes
Instructions:
-
Soak the Lobia:
Begin by soaking the black-eyed peas (Lobia) in water for about 2 hours to soften them. After soaking, drain the water. -
-
Cook the Lobia:
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked Lobia and 2 cups of water. Pressure cook for 5 to 6 whistles. Once done, let the pressure release naturally before opening the cooker. Set the cooked Lobia aside in a bowl. -
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat 1 tsp of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and cinnamon stick. Let the cumin seeds crackle and release their aroma. -
Add Aromatics:
Immediately add grated ginger, garlic cloves, chopped onion, and green chilies to the saucepan. Sauté for 15 to 20 seconds until the onions soften and become translucent. -
Cook the Tomato Puree:
Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomato mixture thickens slightly and the oil starts separating from the masala. -
Spice it Up:
Now, add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Stir well and let the spices cook for another 2 minutes to release their flavors. -
Add the Lobia:
Add the cooked Lobia to the pan along with jaggery (for a hint of sweetness) and salt to taste. Mix well, ensuring that the Lobia is evenly coated with the masala. -
Simmer the Masala:
Reduce the heat and let the Lobia simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the peas. If the mixture looks too thick, feel free to add a little water to achieve the desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. -
Finish with Lemon Juice:
Once the Lobia has cooked and absorbed the spices, add lemon juice and give everything a final stir. The lemon juice adds a bright tangy flavor that balances the dish beautifully. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with Tawa Paratha and a side of Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Lobia Masala is best served with soft Tawa Paratha or steamed Basmati Rice. You can also pair it with a refreshing Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita for a cooling contrast to the spiced curry.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Vitamin C | 15% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 10% of Daily Value |
Cooking Tips:
- If you prefer a thicker curry, you can mash a portion of the Lobia once cooked to create a creamy texture.
- Adjust the level of red chili powder and green chilies based on your spice tolerance.
- You can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) during the tempering stage for an added depth of flavor.
- For a richer taste, try replacing olive oil with ghee (clarified butter) for tempering.
Why You’ll Love Lobia Masala:
This Lobia Masala recipe is not only a delicious and comforting vegetarian dish, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish a perfect option for those following a high-protein vegetarian diet. The combination of aromatic spices and sweet jaggery elevates this simple dish into something truly special, while the tangy lemon juice at the end balances the flavors beautifully.
So, whether you’re planning a quick dinner or looking for a hearty lunch box option, Lobia Masala is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you nourished!
Enjoy the rich flavors of Lobia Masala and treat yourself to a healthy, hearty, and flavorful meal. Happy cooking!
