Pithla.. Simply Maharashtrian

Do you ever notice how beautiful food is? Its such an intrinsic part of our lives that we often forget to look at it. Pause for a moment and observe what a beautiful shape an ordinary egg has, or what how beautifully colored raspberries and blueberries are. It is quite amazing, that such small wondrous beauty is available to so many, that something so functional is beautiful to so many of our senses.

Like this simple yet amazing dish - Pithla. I had it first time at a friends place when her Mom was visiting her a few months back. Had it with Bhakri, as its eaten traditionally. I was so impressed while her Mum was cooking it, I started taking the pictures. So the pictures which I have posted here were actually being taken at that time. I had no patience to wait till I prepare it myself the next time. And also, the dedication which a mother can put in her cooking.. Cant reflect in any Photographer's clicks, so I grabbed the chance and snapped a few shots. 

Try this for a light dinner, preferably with Bhakri and Garlic Chutney. 

What you need ?

• 1 cup Gram Flour / Besan
• 3 tsp Oil
• Water 4 cups
• Green Chillies 6
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 1 Onion chopped
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• Coriander leaves for garnishing

How to Cook ?

• Take besan, add water and make a smooth paste.
• Heat oil in a pan and splutter mustard seeds, cumin seeds and onion, saute till onion becomes translucent.
• Add turmeric powder and garlic and green chilli paste, fry for a minute.
• Add besan paste, mix and keep on adding small amount of water till you get right consistency. This will take around 12-15 minutes. 
• Add salt and garnish with coriander leaves.

My Notes:

• The quantity of Oil used is a bit more than the usual for this dish. Although I dont use this much, but then the texture that comes up with more oil is way too different. 
• You can also add Kasuri Methi / died fenugreek leaves just before turning it off for that aromatic flavour. 
• Addition of Bay leaf will also impart a nice flavour. 

Some Other recipes of Besan 

Besan Masala Roti
Besan Laddoo
Besan Zunka 
Besan Barfi - From Suchi 
Khandvi  - Gujarati Snack