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Monsoon dinners call for warm meals that are filling and feel good after a busy day. While there are many things you can cook, lobia is one ingredient that fits right in. Also called black-eyed peas, lobia is soft after cooking and soaks up flavours from spices very well. It’s light on the stomach and full of protein, which makes it great for rainy evenings. Whether you want something light like soup or a heavy meal like pulao, lobia can be used in many ways. Below are five easy and tasty ways to enjoy lobia for dinner when it’s pouring outside.
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Lobia Curry
Lobia curry is a homely dish that goes well with both roti and rice. Soak the lobia for a few hours, boil it until soft, then cook it with onion, tomato, ginger, garlic, and simple Indian spices. A bit of turmeric, cumin, and garam masala brings out its taste. You can add a small boiled potato or some spinach if you like. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the legumes soaks in all the flavours. This curry feels warm, filling, and satisfying. A spoonful of ghee on top while serving makes it taste even better on a rainy day.
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Lobia Soup
If you're looking for something warm and easy on the stomach, try making lobia soup. Just boil soaked lobia until soft, then cook them with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and black pepper. You can keep it chunky or blend it a little, depending on how you like it. Add a pinch of salt and some coriander leaves on top. It’s light but still keeps you full. If you like a little tang, squeeze some lemon juice before serving. This soup tastes great with toast or by itself on a cold, rainy night.
Lobia Pulao
When you want a one-pot meal that’s quick and tasty, lobia pulao is a good choice. Boil the legumes first. In a pan, sauté onions with whole spices like bay leaf, cloves, and cumin. Add rice, the boiled lobia, salt, and water. Let everything cook together until the rice is done. You can also add peas or carrots to make it colourful. This pulao is light, doesn’t need too many ingredients, and pairs well with curd or pickle. It also works as a next-day lunch if there’s any left. A bowl of this on a rainy night feels just right.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Lobia Wrap
If you are travelling during the monsoon and need something easy to hold and fun to eat, lobia wraps are the best choice. In a big bowl, combine boiled and mashed legumes with chopped onions, green chilies, coriander, and a little chaat masala. Then, spread this mixture with a spoon on a warm roti or paratha. You can also add grated cheese or paneer for extra flavour. Roll it up like a frankie and enjoy it with your favourite chutney or ketchup. Additionally, these wraps are also a good way to use leftover legumes.
Lobia Kebab
To add a crispy punch to your dinner meal, you can make juicy lobai kebabs. To whip up, mix mashed boiled legumes with boiled potatoes, chopped onions, green chilies, and basic spices. Now, add some bread crumbs or besan to help bind the mixture and shape the kebabs. Grease your hand with a little oil, shape small round patties, and cook them on a tawa with a little oil till they turn golden brown. Garnish it with cilantro for added freshness, and sprinkle a pinch of garam masala to enhance its taste. Serve them with mint chutney or curd dip. On a rainy day, they can be part of dinner, often served as a side dish or a starter.
