This dish is a specialty of the Himachal region in India. Split black "urad dal" is used to make to make a batter with spices such as cumin and cloves. It is steamed and then pan fried for a crispy outer layer with a soft center. This makes a soft savory cake which can also be added to gravy dishes of the state.
Sepu Bari is a traditional Himachali dish made with split urad dal dumplings in a spinach gravy. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup split urad dal
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon hing (asafoetida)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Rinse the urad dal in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the dal in water for at least 30 minutes, or overnight.
- Drain the dal and grind it into a smooth batter. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Heat the mustard oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and hing and cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add the dal batter and cook, stirring constantly, until the dumplings are cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the garam masala powder and cilantro and serve hot.
Variations:
- For a spicier dish, add more red chili powder.
- For a vegetarian dish, omit the hing.
- To make a vegan dish, use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the dal.
Tips:
- To make the dumplings easier to shape, wet your hands with water.
- If the dumplings are sticking to the skillet, add a little more water or broth.
- Serve Sepu Bari with rice or roti.
