Konkani Style Vali Bendi Recipe – Malabar Spinach Curry
Experience the authentic flavors of Konkani cuisine with our Konkani Style Vali Bendi Recipe, a hearty and flavorful Malabar Spinach Curry. This dish is the perfect accompaniment to steamed rice, offering a delightful blend of earthy greens, aromatic garlic, creamy coconut, and tangy tamarind. Easy to prepare, it makes for a wholesome side dish that will elevate your everyday meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach Leaves (Palak) | 1 cup (chopped) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (pounded) |
| Fresh Coconut | 1/2 cup (grated) |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 |
| Tamarind | 18 grams |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 mins |
| Cook Time | 20 mins |
| Total Time | 30 mins |
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
Cuisine
Konkan
Course
Side Dish
Diet
Vegetarian
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Chop them finely and set them aside. Pound the garlic cloves lightly to release their flavor. -
Dry Roast the Red Chillies
Heat a skillet on medium heat. Add the dry red chillies and roast them until they become fragrant and slightly darker in color. Be careful not to burn them. -
Grind the Coconut Paste
Once the red chillies are roasted, combine them with the grated coconut and tamarind in a blender. Add a small amount of water and grind the mixture into a smooth paste. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. -
Cook the Garlic and Spinach
Heat oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the pounded garlic and let it sizzle until aromatic. Add the chopped spinach leaves and sauté for a few seconds, just until the leaves begin to wilt. -
Combine and Pressure Cook
Add the prepared coconut paste to the pressure cooker, along with 1/2 cup of water. Stir well to combine. Season with salt to taste. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook for 2 whistles. -
Serve Hot
Once the pressure subsides, open the cooker and give the curry a good stir. Adjust the consistency by adding water if it is too thick. Serve the Konkani Style Vali Bendi hot alongside steamed rice, topped with a dollop of ghee for an authentic Konkani experience.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete Konkani-style meal, pair this Malabar Spinach Curry with:
- Steamed Rice: The curry beautifully complements the simplicity of plain rice.
- Konkani Style Mooga Ghushi Recipe: A sprouted green gram curry that adds another layer of nutrition and flavor to your meal.
Pro Tips
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh spinach and coconut for the best taste. Avoid frozen or wilted greens.
- Tamarind Substitute: If tamarind is unavailable, a small piece of kokum or a teaspoon of lemon juice can be used for tanginess.
- Consistency Adjustment: Add more or less water to achieve your desired consistency, depending on whether you prefer a thicker or thinner curry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious: Packed with iron from spinach and healthy fats from coconut.
- Authentic Flavors: A true taste of Konkani cuisine that will transport you to the coastal regions of India.
Transform your everyday meals with this simple yet flavorful Konkani Style Vali Bendi Recipe. With its vibrant blend of ingredients and heartwarming flavors, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the goodness of Malabar spinach, enhanced by the richness of coconut and the tanginess of tamarind, all in one delightful curry!
