Varan Bhaat Recipe (Goan-Style Lentil Rice)
Varan Bhaat is a delightful and comforting dish from Goa, typically enjoyed as a simple yet flavorful lunch. Made with arhar dal (toor dal), aromatic spices, and a tempering of ghee, this dish is a celebration of the rich Goan culinary heritage. This traditional recipe pairs perfectly with rice and a side of vegetable curry. It’s an ideal dish for those who love light yet nutritious vegetarian meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar Dal (Toor Dal) | 1/4 cup |
| Green Chili (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Grated Coconut | 1/4 cup |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Cumin Seeds (for tempering) | 1 tsp |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Goan
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Lentils (Varan):
Begin by placing the arhar dal (toor dal) and the chopped green chili in a pressure cooker. Add 1 cup of water to the cooker, close the lid, and cook the dal for about 2 whistles. Once done, lower the heat and simmer for another 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. -
Prepare the Coconut Paste:
While the dal is cooking, take a mixer grinder and add the grated coconut, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, and a little water. Grind this mixture into a smooth paste. -
Combine the Paste with the Lentils:
Once the dal is cooked and the pressure has been released, open the cooker and add the freshly prepared coconut paste into the cooked dal. Season with salt to taste and mix everything well. Set this aside in a bowl. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
In a small tempering pan, heat the ghee. Add cumin seeds and asafoetida (hing) and sauté for about 10 seconds, allowing the spices to release their aroma. -
Finish the Dish:
Pour the tempering over the dal mixture and give it a good stir to combine the flavors. -
Serve:
Serve the Varan Bhaat hot with steamed rice, and pair it with a side of vegetable curry, such as a simple potato and green onion curry, for a complete meal. This dish makes for an ideal lunch or a comforting dinner.
Enjoy the Goan Varan Bhaat!
This Varan Bhaat recipe is a wonderful combination of earthy lentils, fragrant coconut, and a flavorful tempering that brings everything together. It’s a perfect dish for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a traditional Goan meal that is both light and satisfying.
