Vatana Usal Recipe
A Delicious Twist to Goan Cuisine: The Vatana Usal Recipe
Are you a foodie looking to add some exciting flavors to your recipe repertoire? Look no further than the delicious Goan Vatana Usal recipe! This tasty and nutritious dish is a staple of Goan cuisine and is sure to impress your taste buds.
Introduction
Goan cuisine is a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese flavors, offering an array of delicious dishes. One such dish is the Vatana Usal, a popular Goan recipe that features dried white peas or Vatana, cooked in a flavorful coconut and spice mixture. This dish is commonly served as a side dish or even as a main course with rice, roti, or bread. In this article, we will discuss the history of the dish and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious and authentic Vatana Usal recipe.
History of Vatana Usal
Vatana Usal is a traditional Goan dish that has been passed down through generations. The word “Usal” is a Marathi term that refers to a dish made with legumes, lentils, or beans. This dish is a popular snack during monsoon season in Goa, as it is a hot and spicy dish that is perfect for rainy weather. It is also a popular dish during festivals and celebrations, such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali.
Ingredients
To make Vatana Usal, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup of dried white peas (Vatana)
1 onion, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste
1 green chili, chopped
1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons of oil
1 tablespoon of chopped coriander leaves for garnishing
Method
Follow these simple steps to make the delicious Vatana Usal recipe:
Soak the dried white peas in water overnight or for at least 6 hours.
Drain the water from the soaked peas and rinse them thoroughly.
In a pressure cooker, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds.
When the seeds start to crackle, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
Add 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
Add 2 chopped tomatoes, 1 chopped green chili, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder. Mix well and sauté for a minute.
Add the soaked and drained white peas, along with salt to taste. Mix well.
Add 1 cup of water and mix well.
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook for 4-5 whistles or until the peas are cooked through.
Turn off the flame and let the pressure release naturally.
Once the pressure has been released, open the lid and add 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala. Mix well.
Garnish with chopped coriander
Serve hot with rice, roti, or bread.
Variations
While the traditional Vatana Usal recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with variations to add your own twist to the dish. Some popular variations include adding boiled potatoes or fresh coconut to the dish.
Health Benefits
Not only is Vatana Usal delicious, but it is also packed with health benefits. Dried white peas are a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a nutritious addition to your diet.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a flavorful and nutritious addition to your recipe repertoire, look no further than the delicious Vatana Usal recipe. This traditional Goan dish is sure to impress your taste buds and provide a healthy boost to your diet. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Goan cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
FAQs
Q.1Can I use canned white peas instead of dried white peas?
While you can use canned white peas, it is recommended to use dried white peas as they have a better texture and flavor.
Q.2Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like boiled potatoes, carrots, or fresh coconut to the dish to add more flavor and nutrition.
Q.3How long will the dish last in the refrigerator?
The Vatana Usal dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
CQ.4an I make this dish without a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can cook the peas in a pot on the stove, but it will take longer to cook.
Q.5Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of chili powder and green chili used to make the dish less spicy.
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