Varan Bhaat Recipe: Varan Bhaat is a popular Maharashtrian dish consisting of hot rice topped with ghee and lentil curry. The toovar dal is cooked simply, with onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and spices, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish.
To prepare Varan Bhaat, start by washing and draining the toovar dal. Combine the dal with tomatoes, cumin seeds, onions, oil, green chillies, salt, and 2½ cups of water in a pressure cooker. Mix well and pressure cook for three whistles. After cooking, add turmeric powder and coriander, and mix well with a whisk.
Serve Varan Bhaat hot over cooked rice. Top each serving with a dollop of ghee for an authentic touch.
Tips for making Varan Bhaat:
- Do not over-whisk the dal; it should have a slightly coarse texture.
- For an authentic experience, serve Varan Bhaat topped with ghee, known as ‘toop’ in Marathi.
Ingredients: Varan Bhaat Recipe
For Varan Bhaat:
- 1 cup toovar (arhar) dal
- 4 cups cooked rice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 tsp oil
- 1 tsp roughly chopped green chillies
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp finely chopped coriander
- 4 tsp ghee
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander
Method: Varan Bhaat Recipe
- In a pressure cooker, combine the toovar dal, tomatoes, cumin seeds, onions, oil, green chillies, salt, and 2½ cups of water. Mix well and pressure cook for three whistles.
- Allow the steam to escape before opening the lid.
- Add turmeric powder and coriander, and mix well using a whisk.
- Place 1 cup of cooked rice in a serving bowl, top it with ¼th of the dal mixture, and 1 tsp of ghee evenly over it.
- Repeat step four to make three more servings.
- Serve immediately, garnished with coriander.
Nutrient values (per serving):
- Energy: 410 cal
- Protein: 12.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 64.9 g
- Fiber: 6.1 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 17.5 mg
Conclusion:
Varan Bhaat Recipe is a quintessential Maharashtrian dish that embodies simplicity and comfort. Whether served as a weekday meal or during festive gatherings, its aromatic flavors and nourishing qualities make it a cherished part of Maharashtrian cuisine. With its easy preparation and versatile nature, Varan Bhaat continues to be a favorite among families seeking wholesome and delicious meals.
FAQs about Varan Bhaat Recipe
What is Varan Bhaat?
Varan Bhaat is a traditional Maharashtrian dish consisting of steaming hot rice served with a flavorful lentil curry made from toovar dal. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal enjoyed across Maharashtra.
How is Varan Bhaat prepared?
To prepare Varan Bhaat, the toovar dal is cooked with tomatoes, onions, cumin seeds, green chillies, and spices in a pressure cooker. After cooking, turmeric powder and coriander are added for extra flavor. The dal is then served over cooked rice and garnished with ghee for a rich taste.
What makes Varan Bhaat special?
Varan Bhaat is beloved for its simplicity and homely flavors. The combination of aromatic spices, lentils, and rice creates a comforting and hearty meal that appeals to everyone. It’s often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions in Maharashtrian households.
Can Varan Bhaat be customized?
Yes, Varan Bhaat can be customized according to personal preferences. Some variations include adding more vegetables like carrots or peas to the lentil curry for added nutrition and flavor. Additionally, adjusting the spice levels to suit individual taste preferences is common.
How long can Varan Bhaat be stored?
Varan Bhaat can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop with a little water to prevent drying out. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh when the flavors are at their peak.
