Methi & Soya Chunks Dry Sabzi Recipe: A Flavorful North Indian Delight
If you’re seeking a nutritious and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with your everyday meals, this Methi & Soya Chunks Dry Sabzi is an ideal choice. Combining the earthy bitterness of fenugreek (methi) leaves with the rich, hearty texture of soy chunks, this dish offers a comforting vegetarian option that is both satisfying and healthy. The subtle blend of spices makes it a true representation of North Indian cuisine, elevating the simple ingredients into a vibrant dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soy Chunks (Nuggets) | 1 cup (soaked in hot water) |
| Methi Leaves (Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 cup (washed and finely chopped) |
| Tomato | 1 (chopped) |
| Onion | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Servings
| Serving Size | Number of Servings |
|---|---|
| 1 serving | 4 servings |
Cuisine & Course
| Cuisine | Course |
|---|---|
| North Indian | Side Dish |
Diet
| Diet |
|---|
| Vegetarian |
Instructions
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Soak the Soy Chunks: Start by soaking the soy chunks (nuggets) in a bowl of hot water. Let them soak for about 20 minutes until they soften and expand. Afterward, drain the water and set the chunks aside.
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Prepare the Base: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
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Sauté the Onions: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown. This should take about 4 to 6 minutes, allowing the sweetness of the onions to develop.
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Add the Tomatoes: Once the onions are browned, add the chopped tomato to the pan. Cook the mixture until the tomato softens and becomes mushy, blending with the onions to form a rich base.
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Incorporate the Methi Leaves: Add the finely chopped methi leaves (fenugreek leaves) to the pan. Stir them into the onion-tomato mixture and cover the pan. Let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing the methi to soften and release its distinctive flavor.
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Spices for Flavor: Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder. Stir well to ensure that the spices coat the methi mixture evenly, releasing their fragrance into the dish.
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Add the Soy Chunks: Now, add the drained soy chunks to the pan, along with salt to taste. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the soy chunks are coated with the flavorful spices and methi mixture.
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Final Cooking: Allow the dish to cook for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. The soy chunks will absorb the spices and the bitterness of the methi leaves, making each bite deliciously savory.
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Serving: Once cooked, turn off the heat and transfer the Methi & Soya Chunks Dry Sabzi into a serving bowl. Serve this dish hot with Dhaba Style Dal Fry and Steamed Rice, along with a bowl of Dahi (yogurt) on the side for a well-rounded and comforting meal.
Tips & Variations
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder and garam masala based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the chili powder and increase the cumin and coriander for more earthy flavors.
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Methi Leaves: Methi leaves have a slightly bitter taste, which pairs wonderfully with the soy chunks. If you’re not accustomed to the bitterness, you can blanch the methi leaves before adding them to the pan, which helps to reduce their bitterness.
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Soy Chunks: Ensure the soy chunks are well-soaked before cooking to achieve the perfect texture. You can also experiment with using soy granules or tofu as a substitute for soy chunks for a different texture.
This Methi & Soya Chunks Dry Sabzi is a perfect example of how traditional ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s not only healthy but packed with bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday dinner or a hearty side for a larger meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Enjoy it with your favorite roti, rice, or even as a standalone snack for a quick bite!
