Maharashtrian Thali

Maharashtrian Thali is a vibrant and flavorful Indian meal that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Maharashtra. This balanced platter features an array of dishes, including spiced rice, lentils, vegetables, and flavorful chutneys, making it a wholesome dining experience.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Toor dal (split pigeon peas) - 100 grams
• Potatoes - 2 medium, diced
• Carrots - 1 medium, diced
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, chopped
• Green chilies - 2, slit
• Mustard seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Coriander powder - 1 teaspoon
• Garam masala - 1/2 teaspoon
• Curry leaves - 8-10 leaves
• Cilantro (coriander leaves) - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon - 1, for juice
• Papad (pulses cracker) - 2 pieces

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a pot, add the toor dal with 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook on medium heat until the dal is soft (about 20-25 minutes).
3. In another pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they crackle, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add the diced potatoes, carrots, green chilies, and curry leaves to the onions. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. Add the chopped tomato, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil separates.
6. Add the soaked basmati rice to the vegetable mixture, followed by 2.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
7. Once the dal is cooked, mash it slightly and adjust the salt. Add chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.
8. In a separate pan, roast the papad over an open flame until crisp.
9. Serve the rice and dal hot with the vegetable curry and papad on the side. Enjoy your Maharashtrian Thali!

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 85 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein and fiber from lentils and vegetables.
• Includes a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health.

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