Lobia Masala Recipe – A Flavorful Protein-Packed Curry
Lobia Masala, also known as Chhora Nu Shak in Gujarati, is a delicious and healthy curry that’s packed with protein and essential micronutrients. This flavorful dish is an easy-to-make comfort food, perfect for a wholesome lunch. The black-eyed peas (lobia) are cooked to perfection in a fragrant blend of spices, making it a perfect pairing with hot Tawa Paratha and Boondi Raita. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weekday meal or a dish to pack in your lunchbox, Lobia Masala is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Cuisine: Punjabi
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black-eyed peas (Lobia) | 1 cup |
| Tomato puree | 1/4 cup |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger (peeled and grated) | 1 inch |
| Green chili (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice or Tamarind water | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh coriander leaves | A few (for garnish) |
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
35 minutes
Instructions
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Soak the Lobia: Begin by soaking the black-eyed peas (Lobia) in water for at least 2 hours. This will help the beans soften and cook more quickly.
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Cook the Lobia: Once the beans have soaked, drain the water and transfer the Lobia to a pressure cooker. Add 1 cup of water and cook until the beans become soft. This usually takes around 3-4 whistles. Once done, remove the beans and drain any excess water.
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Prepare the Masala Base: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and sauté for about 20 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the Tomatoes: Next, add the tomato puree and cook until the tomatoes soften and blend into the oil, releasing their rich aroma.
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Add the Spices: To the tomato mixture, add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well to combine the spices with the tomatoes.
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Combine the Lobia: Add the cooked Lobia to the masala base, followed by the finely chopped green chili and sugar. Mix everything together thoroughly, making sure the spices coat the beans well.
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Simmer the Curry: Reduce the flame to low and let the Lobia Masala cook for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the curry to thicken slightly.
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Final Touches: Once the curry is cooked, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (or tamarind water for a tangy twist). Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for added freshness and color.
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Serve: Serve your Lobia Masala hot with a side of Boondi Raita and Tawa Paratha for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, you can add a pinch of garam masala towards the end of cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker curry, you can mash a portion of the cooked Lobia to enhance the consistency.
- This curry pairs beautifully with a simple cucumber salad or steamed rice as well.
Enjoy your nutritious and delightful Lobia Masala, a perfect lunch packed with health benefits and incredible flavors!
Love With Recipes brings you this heartwarming dish that is not only rich in protein but also packed with vibrant spices that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Lobia Masala recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen!
