Low Carb Varan Bhat

Reimagine a traditional Maharashtrian comfort food with this wholesome and flavorful *Low Carb Varan Bhat*! This creative spin on the beloved dish uses creamy yellow split pigeon peas (toor dal) infused with aromatic tempering of ghee, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a hint of green chili for a touch of spice. Instead of the classic rice pairing, tender sautéed cauliflower rice steps in as a low-carb alternative, making this dish a perfect choice for those mindful of their carb intake. Brightened with a splash of fresh lemon juice and garnished with fragrant cilantro, this nutritious and satisfying meal is ready in just under 45 minutes. Enjoy a guilt-free taste of tradition that’s both hearty and healthy! Perfect for keto-friendly or gluten-free lifestyles, this recipe brings the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine into your kitchen with a lighter twist.

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Yellow split pigeon peas (toor dal)
• 3 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Ghee (clarified butter)
• 0.5 teaspoon Mustard seeds
• 0.25 teaspoon Asafoetida (hing)
• 8 leaves Curry leaves
• 1 Green chili, slit lengthwise
• 1 teaspoon Fresh lemon juice
• 3 cups Cauliflower rice
• 2 tablespoons Cilantro, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 20 minutes.

Step 2

Drain the soaked dal and transfer it to a pressure cooker. Add 3 cups of water and turmeric powder.

Step 3

Cook the dal in the pressure cooker for 3 whistles or until it is soft and mushy. Let the pressure release naturally.

Step 4

Once the dal is cooked, mash it lightly with a ladle or whisk. Add salt and set aside.

Step 5

In a small pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

Step 6

Add asafoetida, curry leaves, and the slit green chili. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7

Pour the tempering into the cooked dal and mix well. Simmer the dal for 5 minutes and add fresh lemon juice. Stir to combine.

Step 8

For the low-carb substitute: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the cauliflower rice. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened but not mushy. Season with a small pinch of salt, if desired.

Step 9

Serve the dal warm over the sautéed cauliflower rice, garnished with chopped cilantro. Enjoy your low-carb Varan Bhat!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1317.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	946.4

Total Fat 18.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 36.4mg	0%
Sodium 1353.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 152.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 40.1g	0%
Total Sugars 14.8g
Protein 53.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 272.1mg	0%
Iron 12.2mg	0%
Potassium 3704.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 16.9%

Protein: 21.5%

Carbs: 61.6%