Maharashtrian Rice Recipe: When we want to enjoy rice without any curry or gravy, many of us opt for pulao or biryani recipes. At other times, we may choose to make other types of regional delicacies like curd rice, lemon rice, tamarind rice, etc. Now, if you're looking for a different rice recipe for your next lunch or dinner, we've got your back. We have discovered a delectable Maharashtrian dish you must try. It is called Moogacha Bhaat and it contains a special ingredient that comes with many health benefits. This Maharashtrian rice recipe is also quite easy to recreate at home. Find out more below.
Also Read: 8 Easy Maharashtrian Vegetable Dishes To Make And Relish At Home
What Is Moogacha Bhaat?
Maharashtrian Rice Recipe: Moogacha bhaat is a pulao-like dish. Photo Credit: iStock
Moogacha Bhaat is a Maharashtrian-style rice dish made with green moong (mung bean) sprouts. It has a lovely aroma derived from the use of several whole spices as well as powdered masalas. Every household may give its own twist to it. But the basic idea is that the sprouted moong is the defining feature of this pulao-like delicacy, rather than any vegetable(s). Moogacha Bhaat is a complete dish in itself and doesn't need to be paired with any gravy or curry. Here are a few more reasons to try it:
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Why Moogacha Bhaat Is Good For Health:
Moogacha Bhaat comes loaded with the goodness of green moong sprouts. Now, unsprouted green moong is rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. It is said that the process of sprouting can enhance the nutritional value of the moong further. Thus, moong sprouts are a power-packed ingredient to add to any dish, whether we're talking about rice, curries, dosas, cheelas snacks or even bhel.
Maharashtrian Rice Recipe: Moong sprouts is the key ingredient of Moogacha bhaat. Photo Credit: iStock
Moogacha Bhaat is further enriched with the use of whole spices. Each spice can benefit your health and boost immunity. The other elements of this dish are also high in nutrients. The amount of oil used is not much either. Hence, if you're dieting, this recipe can bring some wholesome variety to your meals.
Maharashtrian Rice Recipe: How To Make Moogacha Bhaat At Home
Wash and soak the rice for around 30 minutes, like you do with other types of pulao. In a saucepan or kadhai, heat oil and add cumin seeds, whole spices and ginger garlic paste. Saute and then add onions. Once they become translucent, add tomato, green chillies, salt and spice masalas. Also, mix in mint and coriander leaves. Allow this mixture to cook until it begins to leave the oil.
Next, drain the rice and add it to the vessel. Add the moong sprouts along with a few cups of hot water. Stir well and cover the vessel. Allow the dish to sit on low flame until the rice is properly cooked. Top with lemon juice and coriander leaves. Enjoy hot!
Click here for the detailed recipe for Moogacha Bhaat.
The next time you're planning to make regular pulao, opt for this recipe instead. Taste it once and you might just end up making it again and again!
Also Read: 6 Maharashtrian Rice Recipes That Will Bring Regional Flavours To Your Home