How to Prepare Besan Curry?

 Introduction:

Besan curry is a delectable and nutritious dish originating from the Indian subcontinent. It is a vegan-friendly and gluten-free curry made from besan, also known as chickpea flour, and a variety of vegetables and spices. This versatile curry is loved by many for its rich taste and creamy texture. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing a mouthwatering besan curry step by step.

What is Besan Curry?

Besan curry, also referred to as chickpea flour curry, is a popular vegetarian dish widely enjoyed in India and neighbouring countries. It is a thick and creamy curry made from besan, which is essentially ground chickpeas. This hearty curry is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a great source of protein and essential nutrients.

Ingredients Required:

To prepare besan curry, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Besan (Chickpea Flour)
2. Mixed Vegetables (e.g., potatoes, carrots, peas, bell peppers)
3. Onions
4. Tomatoes
5. Ginger-Garlic Paste
6. Green Chilies
7. Turmeric Powder
8. Red Chili Powder
9. Garam Masala
10. Cumin Seeds
11. Mustard Seeds
12. Curry Leaves
13. Coriander Leaves
14. Oil
15. Salt
16. Water

Step-by-Step Cooking Process:

Follow these steps to prepare a scrumptious besan curry:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop the mixed vegetables of your choice into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onions, tomatoes, and green chillies.

Step 2: Roast the Besan

In a dry pan, roast the besan on low heat until it emits a nutty aroma and turns slightly golden. Be careful not to burn it; keep stirring continuously.

Step 3: Prepare the Curry Base

Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add curry leaves, chopped onions, and green chillies. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Step 4: Add the Roasted Besan

Now, add the roasted besan to the curry base. Mix well to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Cook the Curry

Add the chopped vegetables, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Stir everything together and cook until the vegetables become tender. Then, sprinkle garam masala and garnish with coriander leaves.

Tips for a Delicious Besan Curry:

Use fresh vegetables for a more flavorful curry.

Adjust the spiciness according to your taste preferences.

For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of yoghurt or coconut milk.

Variations and Additions:

Adding Paneer

To make the besan curry more indulgent, add paneer cubes to the curry while it's cooking.

Tempering with Spices

For an enhanced aroma and flavour, you can temper the besan curry with spices like asafoetida and fenugreek seeds.

Creamy Besan Curry

For a richer texture, substitute water with coconut milk or cashew paste.

Nutritional Boost

To boost the nutritional value of the curry, you can incorporate spinach, kale, or other leafy greens.

Serving and Accompaniments:

Besan curry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, jeera rice, or Indian bread like roti, naan, or paratha. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh green salad.

Health Benefits of Besan Curry:

Besan curry offers numerous health benefits:

High Protein Content: Chickpea flour is a great source of plant-based protein.

Rich in Fiber: The vegetables and besan provide dietary fibre, aiding digestion.

Packed with Nutrients: Besan is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

Gluten-Free: Suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Supports Weight Management: Protein and fibre content helps in controlling hunger and managing weight.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, besan curry is a delightful and nutritious addition to your culinary repertoire. This vegan and gluten-free dish can be easily prepared at home using simple ingredients. Its creamy texture and tantalizing taste will leave you and your guests wanting more.

Now, go ahead and try making this flavorful besan curry to treat yourself and your loved ones!

FAQs:

1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of besan to prepare the curry? Yes, you can, but the besan provides a unique flavour and texture that canned chickpeas may not replicate entirely.

2. Is besan curry suitable for those following a vegan diet? Absolutely! Besan curry is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegans.

3. Can I freeze besan curry for later consumption? While it is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze besan curry in airtight containers for up to 2-3 weeks.

4. How spicy is besan curry? The spiciness can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. You can make it mild or extra spicy as you like.

5. Is besan curry considered a healthy option for Weight Watchers? Yes, besan curry is a healthy choice due to its high protein and fibre content, making it suitable for weight management when consumed in moderation