Dahi Wale Makhane – Lotus Seeds in Curd Gravy
Serves 4 | Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Dahi Wale Makhane is a delightful North Indian dish that combines the creamy richness of yogurt-based gravy with the crunchiness of roasted lotus seeds. This vegetarian delicacy, infused with whole spices, offers a mouthwatering, tangy, and aromatic flavor. The lotus seeds, also known as Phool Makhana, are stir-fried in a blend of spices and then simmered in a yogurt gravy, making it a perfect accompaniment to your lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Gravy
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, chopped | 4 cloves |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 1 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 1 |
For the Yogurt Gravy
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/3 cup |
| Water | 1/3 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Gram flour (besan) | 2 teaspoons |
| Ginger, chopped | 1/2 inch piece |
| Green Chilli, chopped | 1 |
For Makhana Stir Fry
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Phool Makhana (Lotus Seeds) | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tandoori masala | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 teaspoon |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Makhana Stir Fry
- Begin by stir-frying the Phool Makhana (lotus seeds). Heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the lotus seeds and sauté them until they turn golden brown and crisp.
- Add the Chaat Masala, Cumin Powder, Tandoori Masala, and Red Chilli Powder to the roasted makhanas. Stir well for 30 seconds, allowing the spices to coat the makhanas evenly.
- Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and give it a final stir. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Onion-Garlic Paste
- In a mixer jar, add the chopped onion and garlic. Grind them together into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary. Set this paste aside for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Yogurt Base for the Gravy
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, water, salt, gram flour (besan), ginger, and green chili. Whisk it together thoroughly to form a smooth, lump-free mixture. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Gravy
- Heat oil in a pressure cooker on medium heat. Once hot, add the cardamom pods and cloves. Allow them to sizzle for a few seconds, releasing their fragrance.
- Add the onion-garlic paste to the pressure cooker and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the raw smell fades and the paste turns golden.
- Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder. Stir well to combine all the spices.
- Lower the heat and pour in the prepared yogurt mixture. Stir constantly to prevent the yogurt from curdling. Add a little water if the gravy is too thick, adjusting to your desired consistency.
- Increase the heat to medium and close the pressure cooker. Cook for 1 whistle and then turn off the flame.
- Once the pressure cooker has cooled, run cold water over it to release the pressure quickly. Open the lid carefully.
Step 5: Combine the Gravy and Makhana
- Stir the gravy in the pressure cooker to mix everything well. Add the roasted Phool Makhana to the gravy and mix gently. Allow the makhanas to soak in the flavors of the gravy for a few minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Dahi Wale Makhane hot, paired with delicious accompaniments like Panchmel Dal, Phulka (Indian flatbread), and Papad for a hearty lunch. Alternatively, enjoy this curry with Steamed Rice or Jeera Rice for a complete meal.
Pro Tip:
For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves over the dish before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
This Dahi Wale Makhane is the perfect blend of spices, creamy yogurt, and crunchy lotus seeds, making it a great choice for your weekday meals. It is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.
