Varan Bhat
A simple, comforting Maharashtrian meal of plain lentil stew (Varan) served over steamed rice (Bhat). Seasoned with turmeric and asafoetida, it's a wholesome and soulful dish, often considered the ultimate comfort food in Marathi households.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Pressure Cook Dal and Rice (Pot-in-Pot Method)
- b.Drain the soaked toor dal. Place it in a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and hing.
- c.In a separate, smaller container that fits inside the cooker, add the rinsed rice and 3 cups of water.
- d.Place a trivet or stand inside the pressure cooker over the dal. Carefully place the rice container on top of the trivet.
- e.Secure the lid of the pressure cooker. Cook on medium-high heat for 4-5 whistles, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
- f.Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. This ensures both the dal and rice are cooked perfectly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Varan
- b.Once the pressure has fully released, carefully open the cooker. Remove the container with the cooked rice and set it aside.
- c.Using a wire whisk or an immersion blender, blend the cooked dal directly in the cooker until it is completely smooth and creamy.
- d.Place the cooker back on low heat. Add salt and the optional jaggery. Stir well to combine.
- e.Check the consistency. If the varan is too thick, add 1/2 to 1 cup of hot water to reach a flowing, soupy consistency. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- b.While the varan is simmering, heat the ghee in a small pan (tadka pan) over medium heat.
- c.Once the ghee is hot, add the mustard seeds. Wait for them to splutter and pop.
- d.Immediately add the cumin seeds and curry leaves. Be careful as the leaves will splutter. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the cumin is fragrant.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Serve
- b.Pour the hot tempering directly into the simmering varan. Stir well to incorporate the flavors. The varan is now ready.
- c.To serve, fluff the cooked rice (bhat) with a fork. Place a generous portion of rice on a plate or in a bowl.
- d.Ladle the hot varan over the rice. Drizzle with a little extra ghee and a squeeze of fresh lime juice if desired.
- e.Serve immediately with accompaniments like papad, pickle, or a simple vegetable stir-fry (bhaji).
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the smoothest varan, use an immersion blender. A traditional 'ravi' or wooden churner also works well.
- 2Don't skip the hing (asafoetida); it is crucial for the authentic flavor and aids in digesting the lentils.
- 3Using hot water to adjust the varan's consistency prevents it from becoming lumpy and maintains its temperature.
- 4The pot-in-pot method is a time and energy saver, but you can also cook the dal and rice in separate pots.
- 5For a richer flavor, use homemade ghee for the tempering.
- 6Let the pressure release naturally from the cooker for softer, well-cooked dal.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor Addition
Add 1-2 pieces of dried kokum while cooking the dal for a subtle tangy flavor, which is common in the Konkan region of Maharashtra.
Spicier Version (Phodnicha Varan)Spicier Version (Phodnicha Varan)
To the tempering, add 1-2 chopped green chilies and 1-2 cloves of minced garlic for a spicier, more pungent version of varan.
Goda Masala VaranGoda Masala Varan
For a more festive flavor, add 1 teaspoon of Maharashtrian Goda Masala to the simmering dal along with the salt and jaggery.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Toor dal is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. It's a great protein source for vegetarians and vegans.
Easy to Digest
The simple preparation with minimal spices like turmeric and hing makes Varan Bhat very light on the stomach and easy to digest, making it ideal comfort food, especially when recovering from illness.
Provides Sustained Energy
The combination of complex carbohydrates from rice and protein from dal provides a steady release of energy, keeping you full and energized for longer periods.
Good Source of Fiber
Lentils are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and can help in managing blood sugar levels and cholesterol.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Varan Bhat is considered a very healthy and balanced meal. The toor dal is an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, while rice provides essential carbohydrates for energy. It is minimally spiced, low in fat, and easy to digest, making it suitable for all ages.