Maharashtrian Masala Bhath Recipe
Maharashtrian Masala Bhath is a flavorful, vibrant rice dish from the heart of Maharashtra. Known for its combination of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and the distinct taste of Goda Masala, this dish is a staple in many Maharashtrian households. Whether served as a hearty lunch or a fulfilling dinner, it offers a balanced mix of spice, tang, and crunch. Ideal for family meals, it can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Carrot | 1, peeled and chopped |
| Green beans | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Cabbage | 1/2 cup, chopped into small pieces |
| Capsicum (green) | 1, chopped into small pieces |
| Green peas | 1/2 cup |
| Potato | 1, peeled and chopped |
| Onion | 1, thinly sliced |
| Curd | 2 tbsp |
| Bay leaves | 1 leaf |
| Goda masala | 3 tsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Oil | As needed |
| Asafoetida | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coconut (grated) | 1 tbsp |
| Cashew nuts | 10 pieces |
| Ghee | 1 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Potassium | 350mg |
| Vitamin A | 20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
Preparation Time
- 35 minutes (including soaking rice)
Cooking Time
- 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rice:
Begin by soaking 1 cup of rice in water for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the masala better. -
-
Sauté the Spices:
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1 bay leaf. Let the mustard seeds splutter for about 15 seconds, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. -
Cook the Onions:
Add 1 thinly sliced onion to the pan and sauté until the onion softens and turns golden brown. This will give the base of the dish its deep flavor. -
Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the vegetables: 1 chopped carrot, 1/2 cup of green beans, 1/2 cup of chopped cabbage, 1 chopped capsicum, 1/2 cup of green peas, and 1 chopped potato. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly. -
Incorporate the Curd:
Mix in 2 tablespoons of curd (yogurt) and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This adds a tangy depth to the dish, balancing the spice. -
Cook the Rice:
In a separate saucepan, heat 2-1/2 cups of water. Add the soaked rice to the pan with the vegetables and mix thoroughly. Sprinkle in 3 teaspoons of Goda Masala, a pinch of asafoetida, and salt to taste. Pour in the hot water, stir gently, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the rice is fully cooked and the water has evaporated. -
Prepare the Garnish:
In a small pan, heat 1 teaspoon of ghee and add 10 cashew nuts. Fry them until they turn a light golden brown, adding a rich crunch to the final dish. -
Combine and Garnish:
Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and transfer the cashews into the rice. Stir gently. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of grated coconut for a fresh, sweet contrast to the spices. -
Serve:
Serve the Maharashtrian Masala Bhath hot, ideally paired with a tangy Tomato Essence and a cooling Boondi Raita for a complete meal experience.
Tips for Perfection
- Goda Masala: This blend of spices is essential to the authentic flavor of Maharashtrian Masala Bhath. If you can’t find it locally, you can easily make your own by combining ground coriander, cumin, cinnamon, and a few other spices.
- Vegetables: You can customize the vegetable mix according to what you have available. Common additions include beans, peas, and even sweet potatoes for a richer texture.
- Leftover Rice: This dish is also a great way to repurpose leftover rice, adding the vegetables and spices to elevate it into a new, exciting meal.
Maharashtrian Masala Bhath is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a meal packed with nutrition, thanks to its array of vegetables and the goodness of curd and ghee. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a spicy, savory, and slightly tangy rice dish that brings a piece of Maharashtra’s culinary tradition to your table. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
