Nestled in the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand, Kale Bhatt, also known as soybean dal, is a local gem that holds a special place in the hearts of Kumaoni people. It’s not just a dish but a part of the cultural fabric of the region. When it comes to special occasions, no celebration is complete without Bhatt Ki Churkani. This flavorful and nutritious dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also comes packed with numerous health benefits, including high fiber content that helps in reducing cholesterol levels. Let’s take a deep dive into the recipe for this Kumaoni delicacy.
Bhatt Ki Chudakani – A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- Oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
- Turmeric powder (to taste)
- Red chili powder (to taste)
- Flour (1 handful)
- Jakhiya (a type of mustard seed native to Uttarakhand)
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Tomatoes (finely chopped)
- 300 grams of Kale Bhatt (black soybeans)
Method:
- Fry the Kale Bhatt:
Start by carefully picking out any stones from the black bhatt. If you prefer, soak the black bhatt in water overnight. However, you can also prepare it by frying it directly. To do this, heat some oil in a pan and fry the black bhatt. You’ll know it’s ready when you start hearing a slight popping sound. At this point, it means the bhatt is properly cooked. You can also taste it to ensure it’s just right. - Prepare the Spice Mix:
Heat more oil in a separate pan and add jakhiya (a type of mustard seed). Once the jakhiya starts to splutter, add finely chopped onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown. Add chopped tomatoes to the mix and cook until soft. Now, add salt, red chili powder, and turmeric powder according to your taste. Fry this spice mixture for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together. - Make the Flour Mixture:
Take a small bowl and mix flour with 1-2 cups of water, stirring continuously. The mixture should become thick. Now, pour this mixture into the pan with the spices, stirring to combine. Continue cooking this mixture while stirring until it begins to bubble. - Combine Everything:
Add the fried black bhatt into the pan with the spice and flour mixture. Cook the dal on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together and the bhatt to become tender. The final dish should have a deep, dark black color, and the curry will thicken. - Serve:
Once the bhatt is soft and the curry has thickened, your Bhatt Ki Chudakani is ready to be served! It pairs wonderfully with hot, steamed rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Bhatt Ki Chudkani Recipe Card
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Indian (Uttarakhand)
- Calories: 125 per serving
- Cooking Level: Medium
Final Thoughts:
Bhatt Ki Churkani is not just about the ingredients but about the story and tradition behind it. This Kumaoni dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with care and love, can create something so rich in flavor and heritage. Whether you’re cooking it for a special occasion or simply looking for a nourishing, hearty meal, this dish will bring the authentic taste of the hills straight to your kitchen.
Have you tried making Bhatt Ki Chudakani before? If not, now’s the time! We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. Stay connected for more delightful recipes from Uttarakhand and beyond!
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