Introduction

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, we’re going to make a delicious and healthy dish called Bengali Millet Handvo. Handvo is a traditional Gujarati savory cake typically made with rice and lentils. In this recipe, we substitute rice with millet to create a nutritious and gluten-free version. Packed with vegetables and spices, Bengali Millet Handvo makes for a wholesome meal or snack. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For Batter:

• 1 cup foxtail millet (mori dal)
• 1/2 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow gram)
• 1/4 cup urad dal (split black gram)
• 1/2 cup yogurt (plain)
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed

For Tempering:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated bottle gourd (lau)
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup grated zucchini
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (til)
• 1 tablespoon grated coconut (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (cashews, almonds) (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Millet and Lentil Mixture

1. Rinse the foxtail millet, yellow moong dal, and urad dal under running water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rinsed millet and dals. Add enough water to cover them and soak for about 4-6 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Grind the Batter

1. After soaking, drain the water from the millet-dal mixture.
2. In a blender or food processor, grind the mixture into a smooth batter. Add yogurt, ginger paste, green chilies, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Blend again until everything is well combined. If needed, add a little water to achieve a thick batter consistency.

Step 3: Ferment the Batter

1. Transfer the batter to a large mixing bowl. Cover it and let it ferment in a warm place for about 6-8 hours or overnight. Fermentation helps in making the handvo fluffy and enhances its flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Once fermented, the batter will rise and become airy. Mix the batter gently.
2. Add grated bottle gourd, carrot, zucchini, chopped coriander leaves, sesame seeds, grated coconut (if using), and chopped nuts (if using). Mix well to incorporate all the vegetables into the batter.

Step 5: Make the Handvo

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish or cake pan with oil.
2. Heat oil in a small pan for tempering. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and asafoetida. Let them crackle and sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Pour the tempering mixture into the batter and mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Bake the Handvo

1. Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish or cake pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Serve

1. Remove the Bengali Millet Handvo from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Cut into squares or wedges and serve warm with green chutney, yogurt, or your favorite dip.

Tips for Success

• Consistency: The batter should be thick but pourable. Adjust water as necessary.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your preference.
• Fermentation: Proper fermentation is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Bengali Millet Handvo can be enjoyed warm as a breakfast dish or a snack. It pairs well with green chutney, yogurt, or a tangy pickle.

Conclusion

Bengali Millet Handvo is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of millet with an array of vegetables and spices. It’s a wholesome choice for those looking to incorporate more millets into their diet. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Bengali Millet Handvo with your family and friends!

I hope you find this recipe enjoyable and easy to follow. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!

3.5