Maharashtrian Varan Bhaat

Varan Bhaat is a comforting Maharashtrian dish made with split pigeon peas and rice, providing a wholesome and protein-rich meal. This simple yet flavorful dish is often enjoyed with a touch of ghee and accompanied by a side of pickle or salad.

Ingredients

• Split pigeon peas (Toor dal) - 100 grams
• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Water - 4 cups
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Green chilies - 1, slit
• Coriander leaves - a handful, chopped
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon

Steps

1. Rinse the split pigeon peas and basmati rice separately under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pressure cooker, add the rinsed toor dal, 2 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for about 3 whistles or until soft.
3. In another pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil and add the rinsed basmati rice. Cook until the rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
4. In a small pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
5. Add slit green chilies and sauté for a minute. Then add the cooked dal and mix well. Adjust the consistency with water as needed.
6. Turn off the heat and add chopped coriander leaves and lemon juice to the dal.
7. Serve the varan (dal) over the bhaat (rice) with a dollop of ghee on top.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein due to the inclusion of split pigeon peas.
• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.

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