Maharastrian Masale Bhaat
Serves:
4 people
Total Cooking Time:
30-40 minutes (including soaking time)
Ingredients:
| Lalbaba Basmati /Banskathi Rice - | 2 cups |
| Mixed Vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes) - | 1.5 cups (chopped) |
| Onion (sliced) - | 1 medium |
| Tomato (chopped) - | 1 medium |
| Ginger-Garlic Paste - | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Chilies - | 2-3 (slit) |
| Mustard Seeds - | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds - | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder - | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder - | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder - | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chili Powder - | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt - | to taste |
| Oil or Ghee - | 3 tablespoons |
| Water - | 4 cups |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves – - | for garnishing |
Step-by-Step Recipe:
1. Prepare the Rice:
- Rinse the rice in water until it runs clear, then soak it for 20-30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat oil or ghee in a large pan. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
- Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add gingergarlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another minute.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
3. Add Spices and Rice:
- Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender.
- Add the drained rice and gently mix to coat the rice with the spices.
- Pour in 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
4. Cook the Masale Bhaat:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Fluff the Masale Bhaat gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with a side of yogurt or raita, and enjoy!
Tip: You can adjust the thickness of the batter as per your preference. For a thicker rice cake, keep the batter dense; for a lighter texture, add a little more milk.