Maharashtrian "Masale Bhat"

It was a friend’s traditional baby shower and the menu was ‘typical’ Maharashtrian….with Alu (Colocassia) bhaji, Batata bhaji, Shrikhand, Poli, Koshimbir,Papad, Loncha, Varan-Bhat and ofcourse…..Masale Bhat!

Masale bhat is a must have in a traditional Maharashtrian thali. The Rice is flavored with Cloves, bay leaves, coconut, and a bunch of other spices which make up the “Goda masala” ( you can find this in the Indian stores under the brand name KPra or Bedekar). Adding vegetables like green peas, tondala (tindora) etc is optional. This way or the other….it’s super tasty and is complimented perfectly with papad/ pickle and Spiced buttermilk (mattha)!

 

Ingredients:

1 Cup Rice (washed and drained for 20-30 mins)

½ cup green peas/ cut up tindora

2tbsp Peanuts

2tsp Goda masala

1tsp Jaggery

1/2tsp each Turmeric, red chili powder, cumin and mustard seeds

7-8 Curry leaves

4-5 cloves

1-2 small pieces of cinnamon

2-3 green chilies

1 bay leaf

Salt

1tbsp Oil

2tsp Ghee

2 cups Water (Double of the Rice )

Garnish- fresh/ dry shredded coconut, chopped cilantro, cashews, raisins, dried cranberries etc

Method:

11)      Heat up water in microwave/pan.

22)      Heat up oil in a pan. Add the mustard and let it crackle. Add cumin, green chilies, cloves, bay leaf, curry leaves, Veggies, peanuts etc. Fry for few seconds. Add the rice and sauté for 1-2 mins.

33)      Add the rest of the spices and turn the flame to medium.

44)      Add the heated water, jaggery, salt and let it cook till all water evaporates and rice is well cooked. Add ghee and cover with lid, turn off the flame and let it rest.

55)      Serve hot  with a extra teaspoon of ghee!!Garnish with coconut, cilantro, cashews, raisins etc