Odia Chatu Besara Recipe (Mushrooms in Spicy Mustard Curry)
Odia Chatu Besara is a traditional dish from the state of Odisha in eastern India. The name “Chatu Besara” refers to a mustard-based curry, a beloved specialty in Oriya cuisine, especially known for its bold and vibrant flavors. The mustard paste used in the gravy offers a distinct tangy and spicy profile that perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms and tender potatoes. This simple yet flavorful curry, with its minimal ingredients and quick preparation, makes for a comforting dinner option, best enjoyed with steamed rice or flatbreads.
Cuisine: Oriya Recipes
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Main Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Button mushrooms | 400 grams |
| Potato (Aloo) | 1 medium |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | For garnishing |
| Ingredients for Mustard Paste | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1-1/2 tablespoons |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander seeds (Dhania) | 5 teaspoons |
| Dry red chillies | 5 |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions
-
Clean and Prepare the Mushrooms and Potatoes:
- Start by thoroughly cleaning the button mushrooms under running water. Cut them into halves or quarters, depending on your preference, and set aside.
- Peel the potato and chop it into small cubes. Place the chopped potato in a bowl of water to prevent it from browning.
-
-
Make the Mustard Paste:
- For the mustard paste, combine the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and dry red chillies in a blender.
- Grind the ingredients into a fine, thick paste, adding just enough water to achieve the desired consistency. The paste should be thick, not runny, so use as little water as possible.
-
Cook the Potatoes:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a kadai (wok) or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped potatoes to the pan, season with a pinch of salt, and sauté them until they are almost cooked and turn light brown in color.
- Once done, transfer the potatoes onto a paper towel to drain excess oil and set aside.
-
Sauté the Tomatoes and Mushrooms:
- In the same pan, add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a minute until they soften.
- Add the chopped mushrooms to the pan and sauté them on high heat for 6-8 minutes, until they are half-cooked and start to release their moisture.
-
Add the Potatoes and Spices:
- Add the sautéed potatoes back into the pan with the mushrooms.
- Sprinkle the turmeric powder over the vegetables and toss everything together. Let it cook for another 2 minutes.
-
Incorporate the Mustard Paste:
- Add the prepared mustard paste into the pan, mixing everything thoroughly. Allow it to sauté for 2 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Simmer the Curry:
- Season with salt and add water to adjust the consistency of the gravy, depending on how thick or thin you prefer it.
- Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully absorb into the vegetables.
-
Final Garnish and Serving:
- Once the curry is done, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for added freshness and color.
- Serve the Odia Chatu Besara hot with steamed rice or your favorite flatbread for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.
Tips for a Perfect Odia Chatu Besara:
- Consistency of Mustard Paste: To ensure a thick, rich paste, use just a small amount of water when grinding the mustard and other spices. This keeps the curry’s texture creamy and smooth.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The number of dry red chillies can be adjusted according to your preferred spice level. You can also opt to deseed the chillies for a milder flavor.
- Mushroom Varieties: While button mushrooms are traditionally used, you can experiment with other varieties of mushrooms for a unique twist to this classic dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Fat | ~7g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~300mg |
Odia Chatu Besara is a wholesome, flavorful curry, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or chapatis, making it a delicious choice for dinner that brings the authentic flavors of Odisha to your kitchen. Enjoy the spicy, tangy mustard gravy with the earthy mushrooms and crispy potatoes for a truly satisfying experience!
