Tudkiya Bhath
Tudkiya Bhath is a traditional rice dish from the Himachal Pradesh region of India, known for its unique blend of spices and flavors. This dish is a delightful mix of rice, lentils, and vegetables, cooked together with aromatic spices to create a wholesome and satisfying meal. Tudkiya Bhath is often prepared during festivals and special occasions, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
What sets Tudkiya Bhath apart is its distinctive preparation method. The rice and lentils are first sautéed with spices and vegetables, then cooked together to absorb all the flavors. This one-pot meal is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The combination of spices used in Tudkiya Bhath gives it a unique taste that is both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients Required for Making Tudkiya Bhath
- Rice (चावल) – 1 cup, soaked for 30 minutes
- Split yellow moong dal (पीली मूंग दाल) – 1/2 cup, soaked for 30 minutes
- Ghee (घी) – 3 tablespoons
- Cumin seeds (जीरा) – 1 teaspoon
- Mustard seeds (सरसों के बीज) – 1 teaspoon
- Bay leaves (तेज पत्ता) – 2
- Cloves (लौंग) – 4
- Black cardamom (काली इलायची) – 2
- Cinnamon stick (दालचीनी) – 1 inch
- Asafoetida (हींग) – a pinch
- Onions (प्याज) – 2, finely chopped
- Tomatoes (टमाटर) – 2, finely chopped
- Potatoes (आलू) – 2, peeled and diced
- Green peas (हरे मटर) – 1/2 cup
- Green chilies (हरी मिर्च) – 2, slit
- Ginger-garlic paste (अदरक-लहसुन पेस्ट) – 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric powder (हल्दी पाउडर) – 1/2 teaspoon
- Red chili powder (लाल मिर्च पाउडर) – 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder (धनिया पाउडर) – 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala (गरम मसाला) – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt (नमक) – to taste
- Water (पानी) – 4 cups
- Fresh coriander leaves (ताजा धनिया पत्ते) – for garnish
The Step-Wise Process of Cooking Tudkiya Bhath
- Heat Ghee: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium flame.
- Add Whole Spices: Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, bay leaves, cloves, black cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
- Add Asafoetida: Add a pinch of asafoetida and stir well.
- Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add the finely chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate.
- Add Vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, green peas, and slit green chilies. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
- Add Rice and Dal: Drain the soaked rice and moong dal, and add them to the pan. Mix well with the vegetables and spices.
- Add Water: Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
- Cook: Reduce the flame to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice and dal are fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Finish with Garam Masala: Sprinkle garam masala over the cooked rice and mix gently.
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.
Number of Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
Time Required to Make Tudkiya Bhath
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (excluding soaking time)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish
- Ensure the rice and dal are soaked properly to reduce cooking time and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of water according to the rice and dal used; some varieties may require more or less water.
- Stir gently after adding garam masala to avoid breaking the rice grains.
How to Serve the Tudkiya Bhath
Tudkiya Bhath is best served hot, accompanied by a side of plain yogurt or raita, and a pickle of your choice. It can also be enjoyed with a simple salad for a complete meal. A drizzle of ghee on top before serving enhances the flavor and adds a rich, buttery taste.
Final Thoughts
Tudkiya Bhath is a wonderful example of Himachali cuisine, combining simple ingredients to create a flavorful and nutritious dish. This traditional recipe not only highlights the region’s culinary skills but also brings out the natural flavors of the spices and vegetables used. Whether for a festive occasion or a regular meal, Tudkiya Bhath is sure to impress with its unique taste and hearty goodness.
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