By Shireen Jamooji
September 19, 2023
Ganesh Chaturthi, often referred to as Chovoth in Goa is a time of community and family. Khatkhate is simple dish made with seasonal vegetables that's delicious and nourishing.
250g toor dal 250g channa dal Small pinch of turmeric 300g potatoes, cubed and parboiled 6 drumsticks, trimmed and peeled 160g carrots, cubed 400g green beans, trimmed and halved 4 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tsp cumin seeds 20-30 curry leaves 2 heaped tsp coriander powder 2 tbsp jaggery 2 tsp coarsely crushed sichuan pepper 8-10 dried kokum petals
For the coconut paste: 200 gm freshly grated coconut 1 inch piece of ginger 20 dried Kashmiri chillies, soaked 20 black peppercorns, coarsely crushed 1 tsp turmeric powder
In a saucepan, combine the dal, water, and a small pinch of turmeric. Simmer for 30-35 minutes until the dal is soft. Add extra water if needed.
Remove from heat and drain the dal, but save the water. Mash the dal roughly and set it aside. While the water is still warm, add the kokum to it to release its colour and flavour.
Use a wet grinder to blend the coconut paste ingredients into a thick paste with a little water.
In another pan, heat the oil. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 10-12 seconds. Add curry leaves, allowing them to splutter, followed by the coconut paste. Fry for 3-4 minutes.
Add the cooked mashed dal and fry on medium heat. Incorporate coriander powder, jaggery, peppercorns, salt, and the dal stock with kokum.
Stir well and add carrots and beans. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Finally, add potatoes and drumsticks, simmer for 10 minutes before serving.