Are you craving a heartwarming, flavorful vegetarian dish that's both easy to make and bursting with authentic Konkani taste? Then look no further! Today, we're diving into the culinary heart of the Konkan coast with a recipe for Devasthana Saaru, a simple yet incredibly satisfying lentil-based soup. This "temple saaru" is a staple in many Konkani homes, often served as a comforting and healthy meal. Its subtle sweetness and tangy notes will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe is a must-try for anyone exploring delicious and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Toor Dal (split pigeon peas), rinsed
- 4 cups Water
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium Tomato, finely chopped
- 1 inch Ginger, finely chopped
- 2-3 Green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/4 tsp Mustard seeds
- 1/4 tsp Cumin seeds
- A pinch of Asafoetida (hing)
- 2 tbsp Coconut oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Cilantro (coriander leaves)
- Salt to taste
- Jaggery or brown sugar (optional, to taste) – adds a subtle sweetness that's traditional
- Tamarind pulp (optional, a small amount for a touch of tang)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dal: In a pressure cooker, combine the toor dal and water. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is completely cooked and soft. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Sauté the Aromatics: While the dal cooks, heat the coconut oil in a pan. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds; let them splutter. Now add the asafoetida, followed by the chopped onions, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
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Add Spices and Tomatoes: Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well and cook for a minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and sauté until they soften slightly.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked dal to the pan. Stir gently. Add salt and optionally, a small amount of jaggery or brown sugar, and tamarind pulp for added flavor complexity. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
Cooking Tips for the Best Devasthana Saaru:
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Dal Consistency: Adjust the amount of water while cooking the dal to achieve your desired consistency. You can add more water for a thinner soup.
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Spice Level: Customize the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies and adjusting the amount of red chili powder.
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Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds a distinct flavor to this dish. If unavailable, you can substitute with another neutral oil.
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Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients enhances the taste of the saaru.
Variations:
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Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like drumsticks, potatoes, or spinach. Add them along with the tomatoes during step 3.
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Coconut Milk: For a richer, creamier saaru, stir in a little coconut milk at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, thanks to the toor dal. The addition of vegetables further enhances its nutritional profile. Precise nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
This Devasthana Saaru is a delightful example of simple, healthy, and flavorful homemade cooking. It's a quick dinner idea that’s easy to master, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this taste of the Konkan coast!