The Steaming Pot - Easy vegetarian recipes from India

Fenugreek seeds (methi) are packed with nutrients and healing properties – no surprise that Ayurveda swears by them. But as it happens with most things are good for you, fenugreek seeds are hard to like. In Indian cooking, fenugreek seeds are usually added in tadka and then picked out by most people (self included), never to be eaten.

I have recently discovered a trick to make these bitter brown devils palatable. This methi dahi (fenugreek flavored yogurt) recipe uses a generous amount of fenugreek seeds without rendering the final dish overly bitter. Here’s how.

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When the crop gives you carrots, make aloo gajar ki sabzi. This filling vegetable curry of potatoes and carrots, with its hint of sweetness, pairs perfectly with Indian breads, raita and pickle on the side.

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Chana dal has a rich texture and a hint of sweetness in its taste when compared to other yellow dals such as moong or toor. These qualities make chana dal the perfect pairing choice with green leafy vegetables, especially greens that lean towards bitter.  For those who would not touch fenugreek chutney or chaulai saag, a smart alternate to get their dose of greens is by "hiding" the leaves in chana dal.

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You read that right: chia seeds and sabja seeds are not the same. Ignore the wisdom that tells you otherwise. Set aside the surface similarities, the fact that both chia and sabja are recommended for weight loss and as a source of nutrients/dietary fiber. Here’s a rundown of the differences between these two wonder foods.

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Rajma masala giving you the same old same old vibe? Try something different with rajma (kidney beans) this time – something that is quicker to put together, that works wonderfully as a teatime snack or lunchtime salad. Try rajma chaat.

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Bhindi bhujiya besanwali, with its crunch and bite, appeals even to those who turn their noses up at okra in other forms. Perfect on the side with rice and dal.

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Saag – an Indian dish of leafy greens, eaten along with rotis or rice. A variety of leaves can be used in saag: spinach and mustard greens are popular choices, while chaulai (amaranth leaves) is used often in Bihar. Chaulai saag is a simple, dry preparation with amaranth leaves and a hint of spices.

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