Methiche Varan

by Arpit, Published: August 21, 2012

Traditional and Quick Maharashtrian Lentil Soup combined with Fenugreek Leaves. This is a simple dal that you can prepare quickly and serve hot with steamed rice or rotis. Chopped methi leaves are cooked along with toovar dal. A tempering of garlic, jaggery, mustard seeds and asafetida subtly enhance the flavor of the methi leaves in dal. Soothing!

Prep time: 10 mins

Cook time: 25 mins

Total time: 35 mins

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 cup finely chopped fenugreek leaves (मेथी)

1 cup toovar dal (अरहर)

1 tsp jaggery optional (गुड)

1/2 tsp turmeric powder (हलदी)

1/2 tsp chilli powder (लाल मीर्च)

salt to taste (नमक)

For the tempering

1/4 tsp asafoetida (हींग)

4 to 5 cloves garlic, crushed (लेहसून) (optional) (लेह्सून)

2 tbsp ghee (घी)/ oil (तेल)

Method :

1. Clean, wash and soak the dal in water for about 30 minutes. Drain.

2. Pressure cook the dal with turmeric powder, salt and 3 cups of water till the dal is done.

3. Whisk well, add 1/4 cup of water, jaggery and chilli powder and bring to a boil.

4. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a small pan and add the asafoetida and garlic.

5. Saute till the garlic turns golden brown.

6. Add the fenugreek leaves and saute for 2 minutes.

7. Pour this tempering over the cooked dal and mix well.

8. Serve hot.