Sugar-Free Varan Bhat

Savor the comforting flavors of "Sugar-Free Varan Bhat," a classic Maharashtrian dish made wholesome and healthier without compromising on taste. This aromatic recipe features protein-rich toor dal (split pigeon peas) simmered to perfection with a touch of turmeric and asafoetida, then elevated with a traditional ghee tempering infused with cumin seeds, curry leaves, and spicy green chili. Served over fluffy steamed rice and garnished with fresh cilantro, this sugar-free delight is light yet satisfying, making it a perfect guilt-free meal for any day of the week. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's an easy-to-make, gluten-free, vegetarian dish that showcases the essence of home-cooked Indian comfort food. Perfect for families or meal preps, this dish is a must-try for flavorful yet mindful eating.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 3 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoons Turmeric powder
• 0.25 teaspoons Asafoetida (hing)
• 1 teaspoons Salt
• 2 cups Cooked rice
• 1 tablespoons Ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 6 leaves Curry leaves
• 1 whole Green chili (slit)
• 0.5 teaspoons Cumin seeds
• 2 tablespoons Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the toor dal (split pigeon peas) thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a pressure cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the washed toor dal with 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and a pinch of asafoetida.

Step 3

Cook the dal until it is soft and mushy. If using a pressure cooker, this typically takes about 3-4 whistles. Let the pressure release naturally before opening.

Step 4

Whisk the cooked dal to ensure a smooth consistency. Add salt to taste and adjust the consistency by adding a little water if needed. The dal should be slightly thick but pourable.

Step 5

In a small pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.

Step 6

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

Step 7

Pour this tempering over the dal and mix well.

Step 8

Let the dal simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 9

Serve the varan hot over steamed rice. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander (cilantro) before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1384.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1352.5

Total Fat 18.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 42mg	0%
Sodium 2425.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 242.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 33.9g	0%
Total Sugars 7.3g
Protein 56.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 247.6mg	0%
Iron 15.0mg	0%
Potassium 3361.9mg	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: 12.4%

Protein: 16.4%

Carbs: 71.2%