Gahat Rasmi Badi Recipe (Uttaranchal Kulith Koftas in Tomato Onion Gravy)
Gahat Rasmi Badi is a traditional North Indian dish from the stunning hills of Uttarakhand. It is made with Kulith (Horse Gram), a high-protein legume known for its health benefits, and delicately spiced, steamed koftas that are simmered in a rich, tangy tomato-onion gravy. This recipe is a wonderful balance of nutrition and flavor, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a hearty vegetarian side dish packed with protein.
This recipe takes you step-by-step through the preparation of Gahat Rasmi Badi, also called Uttaranchal Kulith Koftas in Tomato Onion Gravy. The combination of the nutty, earthy flavor of horse gram dal with aromatic spices creates a deeply satisfying meal. The soft, steamed koftas soak up the spicy tomato gravy, offering a delightful bite with each mouthful. Best served with hot steamed rice or kulcha, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy authentic regional flavors.
Ingredients
Serves 2 | Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Horse Gram Dal (Kollu/Kulith) | 1 Cup (soaked overnight) |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Green Chilies | 2, finely chopped |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Gahat Koftas:
- Start by soaking the horse gram dal (kulith) in water overnight. The next day, drain the water and transfer the dal to a blender.
- Add turmeric powder, green chilies, and a pinch of salt. Grind this mixture into a coarse paste. It should be thick and not watery.
- Scoop a tablespoon of the prepared paste and roll it into small, firm balls (koftas). Make sure the batter is not too loose; it should hold its shape well. If needed, refrigerate the batter for a while to help it firm up.
- Steam the balls in a steamer or an idli cooker for around 10 minutes until they are fully cooked and firm to touch. Set them aside.
-
Prepare the Tomato Onion Gravy:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium flame and add sunflower oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and let them splutter to release their aroma.
- Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn transparent and soft.
- Add the ginger garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Toss in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Sprinkle in the red chili powder, garam masala, and cinnamon powder, and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1/2 cup of water to the gravy base and let it simmer until the mixture is well-cooked and the oil begins to separate from the masala.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- Season the gravy with salt to taste.
- Gently add the steamed Gahat koftas into the hot tomato-onion gravy. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the koftas.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 5 minutes over medium heat, allowing the koftas to absorb the flavors of the gravy.
-
Serve:
- Once the koftas have blended nicely with the curry, remove the lid and serve the Gahat Rasmi Badi hot with steamed rice or kulcha for an authentic meal experience. The soft koftas paired with the spicy, tangy gravy are sure to delight your taste buds!
Tips for the Perfect Gahat Rasmi Badi
- Consistency of Kofta Paste: Be sure to grind the horse gram dal into a coarse paste that’s firm enough to form balls. If the batter is too runny, the koftas may not hold their shape.
- Steaming the Koftas: Steaming the koftas is essential for the right texture. Ensure that the steamer or idli cooker has enough water, and steam the koftas until they’re fully cooked.
- Adjusting Spices: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of green chilies and red chili powder in the gravy.
- Flavor Boost: For a richer taste, you can add a dollop of cream or yogurt to the gravy before serving, giving it a creamy texture and balancing the spices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Sodium | 560 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
This wholesome and satisfying recipe is a great choice for anyone seeking a protein-packed vegetarian dish. Gahat Rasmi Badi is a perfect addition to any Indian meal and is particularly suited to colder months when comfort food is in high demand. The earthy, nutritious koftas paired with the spiced gravy are both filling and incredibly flavorful. Whether served for lunch or dinner, this dish will leave you craving more!
