Indian cuisine is renowned for its flavorful and diverse vegetarian dishes, and one such gem from the Maharashtrian region is Fansachi Bhaji, or Indian Broad Bean Stir-fry. This dish highlights the humble bean in a way that's both simple and richly satisfying. By following these 5 easy steps, you can bring the taste of Maharashtra to your dining table.
Step 1: Preparation of Ingredients
- 1 kg of fresh Indian Broad Beans (Gawar or Fansa)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1⁄2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Start by washing the broad beans thoroughly. Then, string the sides, and cut them into small pieces, about 2 inches long.
Step 2: Tempering and Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan or a kadai. Once hot, add the mustard seeds, and let them crackle. Follow with the cumin seeds and let them turn a shade darker, then add a pinch of asafoetida for that distinct flavor. Now, toss in the chopped onions and green chilies, sautéing them until they turn translucent and aromatic.
Step 3: Adding Spices and Beans
After the onions are nicely cooked, add turmeric, coriander powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well to ensure the spices coat the onions evenly, cooking for another minute or so to let the raw spice flavor cook out. Now, gently add the chopped beans to the pan, stirring well to coat them with the spice mixture.
Step 4: Cooking the Beans
Cover the pan with a lid, and let the beans cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender yet retain a bit of crunch. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If you feel the mixture is too dry, you can sprinkle some water, but this is usually not necessary as the beans release their own moisture.
🌟 Note: Do not overcook the beans. They should retain a slight crunch which adds texture to the dish.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the beans are cooked to your liking, remove the lid, turn up the heat a bit to evaporate any remaining moisture, and give the stir-fry a final toss. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves, and you’re ready to serve your Fansachi Bhaji.
This simple yet delicious dish can be served with roti, phulka, or even enjoyed as a side with rice. The mild flavor of the beans, combined with the aromatic spices, makes for a comforting and healthy meal. Fansachi Bhaji showcases how simple ingredients can be turned into something memorable with just a few steps.
Can I use frozen broad beans for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use frozen broad beans, but the texture might be slightly softer. Thaw them first and adjust cooking time accordingly.
What can be used instead of broad beans?
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You can substitute with any flat beans, like green beans or even cluster beans (gavar), but the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
How do I make Fansachi Bhaji spicier?
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Add more green chilies or sprinkle red chili powder when adding the other spices for a spicier dish.
Is Fansachi Bhaji suitable for Jain diets?
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Yes, if you omit onion and garlic, this dish can be made Jain-friendly, making it more austere yet still delicious.
Can I store leftover Fansachi Bhaji?
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Absolutely, refrigerate it in an airtight container, and reheat before serving. It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
