Maharashtrian Bhogichi Bhaji Recipe – A Flavorful Mixed Vegetable Curry
Bhogichi Bhaji is a traditional Maharashtrian dish, deeply rooted in the festive spirit of Bhogi, a pre-harvest celebration. This delectable mixed vegetable curry is a medley of seasonal produce, gently spiced and enriched with the sweetness of jaggery and the nuttiness of fresh coconut. It pairs beautifully with Ambat Goda Dal and Rice Flour Bhakri, making it an ideal choice for a comforting family lunch or dinner. Let’s dive into the preparation of this delightful dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brinjal (Baingan/Eggplant) | 150 grams | Cut into chunks |
| Drumsticks | 2 | Peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces |
| Avarekalu (Lilva Beans) | 1/2 cup | Fresh or frozen |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 2 | Cubed, peeled |
| Onions | 3 | Finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1 | Chopped |
Spices and Flavor Enhancers
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon | – |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon | – |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon | Grated or powdered |
| Salt | To taste | – |
Tempering Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sunflower Oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon | – |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon | – |
| Fenugreek Seeds (Methi Seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon | – |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig | – |
| Green Chilies | 1 | Finely chopped |
Finishing Touches
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Coconut | 2 tablespoons | Grated |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | As required | Chopped for garnish |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Proteins | 4 g |
| Fats | 10 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Vitamin A | 12% of RDI |
| Vitamin C | 20% of RDI |
| Calcium | 8% of RDI |
| Iron | 10% of RDI |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the ingredients used.
Preparation Time
| Task | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 30 minutes |
| Cooking | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 60 minutes |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the brinjal, drumsticks, and potatoes thoroughly under running water.
- Peel the potatoes and chop them into cubes. Cut the brinjal into chunks and the drumsticks into 3-inch pieces.
- Set aside all the vegetables.
Step 2: Tempering the Curry
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and add the sunflower oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter.
- Add the fenugreek seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and finely chopped green chilies. Sauté for about a minute until aromatic.
Step 3: Sautéing Onions and Spices
- Add the finely chopped onions to the tempering and cook until they turn soft and translucent.
- Mix in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Sauté the mixture for 2–3 minutes to release the spices’ flavors.
Step 4: Cooking the Vegetables
- Add the lilva beans, potato cubes, and drumstick pieces to the pan. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spice mixture.
- Pour enough water into the pan to submerge the vegetables partially. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the vegetables cook, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Adding Tomatoes and Brinjal
- When the potatoes and drumsticks are halfway cooked, add the chopped tomato and brinjal chunks.
- Add more hot water if needed to maintain a semi-thick consistency. Cover and continue to cook until all the vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
- Stir in the jaggery and grated coconut. Adjust salt to taste.
- Simmer the curry for 5–6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken slightly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the Bhogichi Bhaji to a serving bowl.
- Garnish generously with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot alongside Maharashtrian Ambat Goda Dal and Rice Flour Bhakri for a wholesome and traditional meal.
Serving Suggestions
Bhogichi Bhaji is traditionally enjoyed with:
- Ambat Goda Dal: A tangy and sweet lentil dish that complements the curry beautifully.
- Rice Flour Bhakri: A flatbread made from rice flour, perfect for scooping up the rich curry.
For a festive touch, you can also pair this dish with steamed rice, pickles, and a light salad.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Bhogichi Bhaji
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the water to achieve your desired consistency. This curry works well as both a thick stew or a slightly runny dish.
- For a spicier version, add more green chilies or a pinch of garam masala during the final simmering.
- Don’t skip the jaggery—it balances the flavors and enhances the dish’s authenticity.
Celebrate the vibrant flavors of Maharashtra with this wholesome and hearty Bhogichi Bhaji Recipe. It’s a true reflection of the region’s culinary traditions and a perfect addition to your festive or everyday menu. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!
