Tendli Bhaat
A fragrant one-pot Maharashtrian rice dish featuring tender ivy gourd, freshly grated coconut, and the unique, aromatic blend of Goda masala. It's a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any day.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Rice and Coconut Paste
- b.Wash the rice thoroughly in a few changes of water until the water runs clear. Soak it in fresh water for 20-30 minutes, then drain completely.
- c.In a small grinder or blender, combine the grated coconut, green chilies, ginger, and garlic. Grind to a coarse paste without adding any water. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Tendli
- b.Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or a pressure cooker over medium heat.
- c.Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Immediately add the cumin seeds, hing, and curry leaves. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
- e.Add the sliced tendli and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly tender and develop light brown spots.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine Masalas and Rice
- b.Add the ground coconut-chili paste to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears and it becomes aromatic.
- c.Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and Goda masala. Mix well and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
- d.Add the drained rice to the pot. Gently fold it into the masala mixture for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to break the delicate rice grains.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Bhaat
- b.Pour in the water (3 cups for pot, 2.5 for pressure cooker). Add salt, kokum, and jaggery. Stir gently to combine everything.
- c.For Pot Method: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all water is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
- d.For Pressure Cooker Method: Secure the lid and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Garnish
- b.Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the Tendli Bhaat rest, covered, for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for the grains to firm up and separate.
- c.Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish generously with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Serve hot with a side of plain yogurt, raita, or a simple Maharashtrian tomato saar.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use Ambe Mohar or another short-grain aromatic rice.
- 2Ensure the tendli is fresh and tender. Avoid any that are yellow or overly mature, as they can be bitter.
- 3Do not over-stir the rice after adding water, as this can release starch and make the final dish sticky.
- 4Letting the bhaat rest for 10 minutes after cooking is essential for perfectly cooked, separate grains.
- 5A dollop of ghee served on top of the hot rice enhances the flavor immensely.
Adapt it for your goals.
Ingredient Addition
Add a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews along with the tendli for a crunchy texture and added richness.
Vegetable AdditionVegetable Addition
Incorporate other vegetables like diced potatoes, green peas, or carrots along with the tendli for a mixed vegetable bhaat.
DietaryDietary
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute ghee with a neutral vegetable oil like sunflower or peanut oil.
Spice BlendSpice Blend
If you don't have Goda masala, you can use a mix of garam masala and a pinch of cinnamon and clove powder, though the taste will be different.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Ivy gourd (tendli) is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Provides Essential Nutrients
This dish contains a variety of spices like turmeric and cumin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Coconut provides healthy fats and minerals.
Balanced One-Pot Meal
Tendli Bhaat offers a good balance of carbohydrates for energy, fiber from vegetables, and fats, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Tendli Bhaat is a relatively healthy one-pot meal. It's balanced with carbohydrates from rice, fiber from tendli (ivy gourd), and healthy fats from coconut and ghee. The spices used also offer various health benefits.