Maharashtrian Style Gavaar chi Bhaji: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistible
Gavaar chi Bhaji, or cluster bean curry, is a beloved Maharashtrian dish known for its perfect balance of flavors—sweet, spicy, and tangy. This traditional recipe is a staple in many households and showcases the simplicity and richness of Marathi cuisine. Whether paired with bhakri or chapati, this dish is a delight for the taste buds and a wholesome addition to your meal.
Cultural Significance of Gavaar chi Bhaji
Cluster beans (gavaar) hold a special place in Indian kitchens, particularly in Maharashtra. Known for their slightly bitter taste, they are transformed into a flavorful dish with the addition of goda masala, jaggery, and aromatic spices. Gavaar chi Bhaji is not just a recipe—it’s a reflection of the Maharashtrian culinary philosophy of balancing diverse flavors in one dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Combines sweet jaggery, fiery spices, and tangy chutney for a multi-dimensional taste.
- Quick and Easy: Prepped and cooked in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Nutrient-Rich: Cluster beans are high in fiber and vitamins, making this dish as healthy as it is delicious.
Tips for Perfect Gavaar chi Bhaji
- Use Fresh Gavaar: Fresh, tender cluster beans work best for this recipe. Older beans can be tough and bitter.
- Adjust Sweetness: The jaggery balances the bitterness of the gavaar, but you can adjust the quantity based on your preference.
- Goda Masala vs. Garam Masala: For authentic Maharashtrian flavor, use goda masala. Garam masala is a good substitute if unavailable.
- Consistency: Add water sparingly to control the consistency of the curry, as gavaar chi bhaji is traditionally semi-dry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Base: 2 tsp oil, 1 tsp mustard seeds, ½ tsp asafoetida (hing), 1 chopped onion
- Spices: ½ tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp coriander powder
- Main Ingredients: 1 bowl chopped cluster beans (gavaar), 1 small potato (optional)
- Flavor Enhancers: 1 tsp goda masala (or garam masala), 1 tsp jaggery, 2 slit green chilies, 2 tsp peanut-garlic red chili chutney
- Salt and Water: To taste
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Tempering:
Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle. Add asafoetida and chopped onions. Sauté until onions turn translucent. - Spices:
Add turmeric, red chili powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Stir for 2 minutes to release the spices’ aroma. - Add Gavaar and Potato:
Toss in chopped cluster beans and potato (if using). Add salt and a splash of water. Stir well to combine. - Enhance Flavor:
Add goda masala, jaggery, slit green chilies, and peanut-garlic chutney. Mix thoroughly. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, or until the cluster beans are tender. - Serve:
Once done, serve hot with bhakri, chapati, or steamed rice. Pair with a side of peanut chutney for an authentic touch.
Health Benefits of Cluster Beans
- Rich in Fiber: Helps improve digestion and control blood sugar levels.
- Low-Calorie Option: Perfect for those watching their weight.
- Heart Healthy: Contains nutrients like potassium and folate that support cardiovascular health.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with bhakri (jowar or bajra flatbread) for a rustic, traditional meal.
- Add a side of shengdana chutney (peanut chutney) for extra flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt for a cooling contrast to the spices.
Why This Recipe Works
This Maharashtrian-style gavaar chi bhaji is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece. The bitterness of cluster beans is beautifully balanced by jaggery and spices, while goda masala adds a unique depth. It’s quick, nutritious, and a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Indian flavors.
Maharashtrian Gavaar Chi Bhaji recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Oil तेल
- 1 tsp mustard seeds राय
- 1/2 tsp asafoetedia हींग
- 1 onion chopped (प्याज)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder हल्दी
- 1 tsp red chilli powder लाल मीर्च
- 1 tsp cumin powder जीरा पाव्डर
- 1 tsp corriander powder धनीया पाव्डर
- 1 bowl cluster beans chopped (गवार)
- 1 potato cut into small pieces (Optional) (आलु)
- 1 tsp goda masala गोडा मसाला (OR) garam masala (गरम मसाला)
- 1 tsp jaggery गुड
- 2 slit green chillies हरी मीर्च
- 2 tsp peanut garlic red chilli chutney फल्ली लेहसुन लालमीर्च चटनी
- 1 inch Salt to taste नमक
Instructions
- Heat oil, once hot add mustard seeds (rai). As soon as mustard seeds starts crackling add asafoetedia (hing) and chopped onions.2 tsp Oil, 1 tsp mustard seeds, 1/2 tsp asafoetedia, 1 onion
- Saute till onions turn translucent. Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder and cumin powder. Mix well.1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chilli powder, 1 tsp corriander powder, 1 tsp cumin powder
- After 2 minutes, add cluster beans (gavaar), salt and water.1 bowl cluster beans, 1 inch Salt to taste, 1 potato
- Add goda masala, jaggery, slit green chillies and peanut chutney and mix well. Cook for 5 minutes.1 tsp goda masala, 1 tsp jaggery, 2 slit green chillies, 2 tsp peanut garlic red chilli chutney
- One cluster beans (gavaar) is done, serve hot with shing daane ki chutney and roti or bhakhari.
Comments 1