Spicy Gram Flour Sabzi (Junka) Recipe
Introduction:
Spicy Gram Flour Sabzi, also known as Junka, is a classic Maharashtrian dish made from gram flour (besan), onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is easy to prepare, yet bursting with flavor, making it a perfect addition to your dinner menu. Typically enjoyed with dal tadka, khichia churi, and phulkas, Junka brings a rich, spicy, and savory touch to your meal. The best part? It’s vegetarian, nutritious, and can be made in under 35 minutes!
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gram flour (besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 2 medium |
| Garlic cloves (peeled and chopped) | 5 cloves |
| Green chili (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Green coriander (finely chopped) | 5 sprigs |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Oil | As required |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lukewarm water | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Maharashtrian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Heat Oil & Temper Spices:
Begin by heating a generous amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter for about 10 seconds, releasing their aromatic flavors. -
Cook Garlic:
Add the finely chopped garlic to the pan and sauté until it turns golden brown. The garlic should become fragrant, adding a rich depth to the flavor of the dish. -
Add Onions & Green Chili:
Now, add the finely chopped onions and green chili to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft and translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of the sizzling onions and chili will fill your kitchen with a delightful fragrance. -
Add Spices & Gram Flour (Besan):
Once the onions are cooked, add the red chili powder and gram flour (besan). Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the besan. Let it cook on medium heat for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. -
Add Water & Cook:
Slowly add lukewarm water to the pan, along with salt to taste. Stir continuously to avoid any lumps. Let the mixture cook for 10 minutes, allowing the water to evaporate and the besan to cook thoroughly. The consistency should thicken as the water reduces. -
Simmer & Finish Cooking:
Once the water has mostly evaporated, cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat. After 5 minutes, remove the lid and cook for another 5 minutes without the lid, stirring occasionally. -
Final Touches:
During the last few minutes of cooking, add a little extra oil if needed, and stir well. This ensures the Junka gets a nice, crispy texture at the bottom. Garnish with fresh, chopped green coriander for a burst of freshness. -
Serve:
Serve the hot Junka with dal tadka, khichia churi, and phulkas for a complete, satisfying meal. The combination of the spicy gram flour with the softness of phulkas and the richness of dal will make for a truly comforting dinner.
Pro Tip:
For an extra punch of flavor, you can sprinkle some roasted peanuts on top of the Junka before serving. This adds a crunchy texture and an additional layer of taste that complements the dish perfectly.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Conclusion:
Spicy Gram Flour Sabzi, or Junka, is a flavorful, hearty dish that fits well into any vegetarian diet. Its rich blend of spices and the smooth texture of cooked gram flour make it an unforgettable part of any meal. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, this Maharashtrian recipe is sure to be a family favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy it with your favorite Indian flatbread for a truly satisfying experience.
