Maharashtrian cuisine is known for its bold flavours, simple ingredients, and wholesome meals. Beyond the well-known street foods like vada pav, this cuisine is home to many nourishing vegetable-based dishes that are perfect for family dinners.
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One classic pairing in Maharashtrian households is green curries served with bhakri, a traditional flatbread made from jowar, bajra, or rice flour. Whether you are a non-vegetarian or vegetarian, these curries are packed with flavours and nutrients, making them a satisfying choice for any meal. In this article, we’ll explore some popular green curries that you can enjoy with bhakri for a hearty, healthy family dinner.
Hirva Kalvan
Hirva Kalvan is a delicious Maharashtrian green fish curry that features tender fish such as pomfret, cooked in a vibrant green masala made from fresh coriander, green chillies, and coconut. The fish absorbs the rich flavours from the herbs and spices, creating a fragrant and satisfying dish. This curry is typically enjoyed with bhakri, enhancing its taste with the flatbread. It’s perfect for seafood lovers looking for a wholesome meal that’s both comforting and full of flavour.
Matarchi Usal
Matarchi usal is a hearty dish made with green peas cooked in a flavourful coconut-based gravy. The peas are seasoned with traditional Maharashtrian spices, which enhance their natural sweetness. This dish is thick and rich, making it a delightful pairing with bhakri. Often enjoyed in festive meals, matarchi usal is not only nutritious but also comforting, perfect for family dinners. Its vibrant flavours and textures make it a favourite in Maharashtrian households.
Hirva Kombadi Masala
Hirva kombadi masala is a spicy green chicken curry that highlights the bold flavours of fresh herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of coriander, mint, and green chillies, allowing it to soak up the zesty taste before being cooked. This curry is rich and aromatic, making it a fantastic option for special occasions. Served with bhakri, it creates a fulfilling meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, combining heat with the tender chicken for a delightful experience.
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Maharashtrian Methi Bhaji
Maharashtrian methi bhaji is a simple and nutritious dish made with fresh fenugreek leaves. The leaves are sautéed with onions and mild spices, creating a savoury side dish that balances the slight bitterness of methi with other flavours. This bhaji is often enjoyed with bhakri, making it a wholesome addition to any meal. It's easy preparation and health benefits make it a go-to recipe in Maharashtrian kitchens, perfect for family dinners or everyday meals.
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Takatla Palak
For a light yet flavourful meal, takatla palak is an excellent choice. This dish combines spinach and buttermilk (tak) to create a refreshing, mildly tangy curry. The spinach is gently simmered in a buttermilk base and tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves, making it a nutritious and flavourful addition to your meal. The tang from the buttermilk complements the earthy taste of the spinach, creating a wholesome dish that pairs beautifully with bhakri or even rice.
Bharli Bhindi
Another stuffed vegetable delight, bharli bhindi features tender okra (bhindi) filled with flavourful stuffing made from peanuts and coconut. The stuffed okra is sautéed until soft, allowing the spices to coat each piece, making every bite a burst of flavour. This dish is simple to prepare but offers a rich, satisfying taste when paired with bhakri. It’s perfect for a weekend family dinner when you want to serve something special but not too complicated.
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Konkani Green Fish Curry
Konkani green fish curry is a flavourful dish that combines fresh Bombil fish with a vibrant green masala made from coriander, green chillies, and coconut. This curry is known for its aromatic spices and rich taste, bringing a coastal flair to your table. The fish is cooked until tender, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavours of the curry. Served with bhakri or rice, this dish is a delightful choice for seafood lovers seeking a wholesome and satisfying meal.