Maharashtrian Masale Bhat

Maharashtrian Masale Bhat

 














        A traditional rice dish from maharashtra ,"Masale Bhat "in marathi means masala rice...Masale bhat is always linked with maharashtrian weddings In earlier days and even now rarely though, no maharashtrian wedding feast was supposed to be complete without masale bhat.
Its a one pot meal with a combination  of rice and vegetables with a blend of aromatic spices.Usually served with maharashtrian style kadhi (my place) or can be served with raita or plain curd as well.

Difficulty Level : Easy
Preparation Time : 15 minutes
Cooking Time  : 20 Minutes

Ingredients
 Long grained Rice 1 Cup soaked for 30 minutes and drained
 1/2 Tsp mustard seeds
 1/2 Tsp Cumin seeds
 1/2 Tsp Turmeric powder
 2 Tsp Goda masala (maharashtrian garam masala)/Garam masala
 3 Tbs Oil
 2-3 Red chillies
 5-6 Curry leaves
 Whole garama masala( 1 cinnamon stick,1 Bay leaves,2-3 cloves,1-2 cardamom)
 1 cup mixed vegetables (Brinjal,gherkins,Potato,peas,cauliflower)
 1 medium sized onion finely chopped
 A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
 Salt to taste
 2 Cups hot water
 Cilantro/coriander for garnish
 4-5 Fried cashews for garnish


  For dry masala powder
      2 Tbs dry desiccated coconut
      3-4 dry red chilies
      2 Tsp coriander seeds
      1 Tsp cumin seeds

Directions

 Dry spice masala powder

•     Lightly roast all the above dry masala ingredients till light brown and grind.

For preparation of Bhat

•  Heat 3 Tbs oil in a thick bottom pan.Add the whole garama masala.
• Now add jeera,mustard seeds dry red chillies,when the seeds crackle add curry leaves and chopped onion.
• Add asafoetida and turmeric powder.Saute for 1-2 minutes in medium flame.
•  Now add the vegetables and saute for 2-3 minutes .
• Add rice and keep stirring for another 2-3 minutes on medium heat.
• Add 2 cups of boiling water,salt,Goda masala/garam masala and dry spice powder, mix well and cook till all the water evaporates and the rice is done.
• Garnish with coriander and cashews .serve hot with raita or mattha.

Notes 

• Goda masala can be replaced with normal garam masala.
• The rice can be prepared in cooker as well.Just cook it for 2 whistles and allow to cool.