Tikhat Rava Recipe (Spicy Semolina Crumble)
Tikhat Rava, often mistaken for Upma, is a delightful Maharashtrian snack with a distinctive spicy twist. Unlike the classic Upma, Tikhat Rava is a semolina-based dish with bold flavors that makes it an excellent choice for both breakfast and evening tea time. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a burst of spice balanced with the subtle nutty flavor of roasted semolina. Served with a hot cup of Adrak Chai (Ginger Tea) and Baked Multigrain Mathri, Tikhat Rava is sure to impress your family or guests.
Ingredients for Tikhat Rava Recipe (Spicy Semolina Crumble)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sooji (Semolina/Rava) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Ghee | 2 teaspoons |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Green peas (Matar) | 1/2 cup, steamed |
| Green Chilli | 1, finely chopped |
| Curry leaves | 8 leaves |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | Chopped, for garnish |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Roasting the Semolina:
Begin by heating the ghee in a pan just until it melts. Once melted, add the semolina (sooji) and roast it over low to medium heat. Stir continuously until the semolina turns a light pinkish color, indicating it’s well-roasted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. -
Preparing the Tempering:
In the same pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the asafoetida, cumin seeds, finely chopped green chili, and curry leaves. Allow the cumin seeds and chili to splutter and release their aroma. -
Cooking the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté on a medium-high flame. Stir occasionally, cooking until the onion softens and turns light brown. -
Combining Ingredients:
Pour in 1-1/2 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the steamed green peas and the roasted semolina into the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients. At this stage, the mixture should be slightly dry, with the water absorbed by the semolina. -
Steaming the Semolina:
Add salt to taste, then cover the pan with a steel plate. Pour a small amount of water into the plate to create a steaming effect. Lower the heat to medium and let the semolina cook in the steam for about 6-8 minutes. -
Checking for Doneness:
After 6-8 minutes, remove the lid and stir the semolina mixture. Ensure the base is not browning, and taste the semolina to check if it’s cooked to your liking. -
Garnishing:
Garnish the Tikhat Rava with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing tang.
Serving Suggestions:
Tikhat Rava (Spicy Semolina Crumble) is best served hot with a steaming cup of Adrak Chai (Ginger Tea) and a side of Baked Multigrain Mathri for the perfect teatime indulgence. This combination of flavors is sure to awaken your senses and offer a wholesome, comforting snack.
Allergen Information:
- Contains gluten (from semolina).
- May contain traces of dairy (due to ghee).
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This dish is completely vegetarian and contains no meat products, making it suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.
Advice for Preparation:
- Roasting Semolina: Ensure the semolina is roasted until lightly golden, as this enhances its flavor and texture. Over-roasting can make it taste bitter.
- Steam Effect: The steaming step is crucial as it allows the semolina to soften and absorb the spices, creating a pleasant texture.
- Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chili or add red chili powder for an extra kick, depending on your spice tolerance.
Conclusion:
Tikhat Rava is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that is packed with aromatic spices, offering a unique variation to the traditional Upma. The dish’s versatility makes it perfect for any time of the day, whether as a filling breakfast or a satisfying snack with your evening tea. With the richness of ghee, the fragrance of curry leaves, and the burst of flavor from cumin and spices, Tikhat Rava stands out as a delightful Maharashtrian dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
