Varan Bhaat: Traditional Maharashtrian Dal Recipe
This comforting Varan Bhaat is a quintessential dish from Maharashtra, combining the goodness of toor dal (split pigeon peas) with a fragrant coconut-based seasoning, all served with steamed rice. Simple yet flavorful, it brings a heartwarming taste of authentic Maharashtrian cuisine to your table. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1/4 cup |
| Green Chilli (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Maharashtrian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Pressure Cook the Dal:
Begin by adding the toor dal and chopped green chili into a pressure cooker. Pour in 1 cup of water and cook for about 2 whistles on medium heat. Afterward, lower the heat and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. -
-
Prepare the Coconut Mixture:
While the dal is cooking, grind the fresh coconut, turmeric powder, and cumin seeds with a bit of water to form a smooth, thick paste. This will add richness and flavor to the dal. -
Mix the Coconut Paste with Dal:
Once the pressure has released, open the pressure cooker and add the coconut paste to the cooked dal. Whisk everything together well. Add salt to taste and transfer the dal to a serving bowl. -
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat ghee in a small pan (tadka pan). Add cumin seeds and asafoetida, allowing them to crackle for a few seconds. Once done, turn off the heat. -
Finish and Serve:
Pour the hot tempering over the dal and stir gently to combine. Serve your Varan Bhaat hot with freshly steamed rice.
Note: Some people like to add curry leaves while tempering the ghee, though this step is optional and can be omitted for a simpler version.
Enjoy the simplicity and comforting flavors of Varan Bhaat, a Maharashtrian classic that’s sure to satisfy!
