Ever Heard of Garhwali Delight Phaanu?
Image Credit: Travelogy India

Uttarakhand is synonymous with picturesque landscapes, lush green valleys, beautiful lakes, and whatnot. The weather in Uttarakhand is wonderful and no wonder, so many tourists flock to this place. Indeed, it is a treat for the eyes of nature lovers. It is not just about nature but also the food that has so so many fans including me. 

I personally have seen very few people appreciating Uttarakhand’s food which is not fair. From aloo ke gutke to bhatt ki churkani, from bhang ki chutney to chainsoo, there are so many delicacies in this rich cuisine that a majority of us don’t know about. Today, I am going to talk about one such delight from the Garhwal region i.e., Phaanu. Those who know, know how tasty this pahadi curry is. But for those who don’t know, phaanu is made up of gahat ki daal locally grown in the hills. This delicious curry is cooked with several spices and herbs. Its aroma is soo good that you won’t be able to stop yourself from eating it. This curry is generally served with hot pipping rice and is enough to satisfy your soul. Wanna know how to make this Pahadi delight? Follow the steps below and have the best time.

Ingredients

  • 250 gm gahat dal
  • 100 ml oil
  • ½ ginger
  • 5 garlic cloves
  • 4 green chilies 
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • Pinch of hing
  • Pinch of asafoetida
  • ½ tsp dry coriander powder
  • ¼ tsp turmeric powder
  • 4 cups water
  • Salt as per taste

Method

  • Take a bowl and add gahat ki dal in it with the water. Soak this dal for 2 to 3 hours.
  • When the dal gets properly soaked, wash and clean the dal under running water to remove its covering.
  • Take a blender and add the soaked rice into it. 
  • Also add green chilies, garlic, and ginger. Grind everything together.
  • Now heat a pan and add a little to it.
  • Add a spoonful of the dal mixture into the pan and make small pancakes. (Use only half of the daal mixture and leave the rest).
  • Heat another pan and add some water. 
  • Then, add the remaining dal paste into it and let it cook until the desired consistency is received. 
  • Then, heat a pan and add oil to it.
  • Add hing and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
  • Add the cooked dal paste, coriander powder, turmeric, and salt as per the taste.
  • Cook the mixture for 8 to 10 minutes on medium flame.
  • Then, add the dal cutlets and cook them for more 15 minutes.
  • When done, serve with piping hot rice.

Enjoy!!