How to make Undhiyu easily at home?

About Undhiyu.

Undhiyu is a traditional and flavorful Gujarati dish that hails from the western part of India. A vibrant and hearty mixed vegetable curry, it is a winter specialty made with a variety of seasonal vegetables, fenugreek dumplings (muthiya), and a distinctive blend of spices. Typically cooked during the festival of Uttarayan or other special occasions, Undhiyu showcases the rich culinary heritage of Gujarat and is known for its unique taste and aromatic appeal.

Homemade Undhiyu Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Undhiyu:

• 2 cups fresh pigeon peas (tuvar dana), shelled
• 1 cup baby potatoes, peeled
• 1 cup small brinjals (eggplants), slit into quarters
• 1 cup sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup surti papdi (broad beans), chopped
• 1 cup valor papdi (Indian flat beans), chopped
• 1 cup raw bananas, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup purple yam (optional), peeled and cubed
• 1 cup fresh toor (pigeon pea) leaves, chopped
• 1 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 cup fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), chopped
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons green chili paste
• 2 tablespoons coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoons jaggery (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 4 tablespoons oil

For the Muthiya (Fenugreek Dumplings):

• 1 cup fenugreek leaves (methi), finely chopped
• 1 cup besan (gram flour)
• 1 tablespoon semolina (sooji)
• 1 tablespoon wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare Muthiya:
   • In a bowl, mix all the ingredients for muthiya to form a firm dough. Shape small portions into round dumplings and deep fry until golden brown. Set aside.
2. Prepare Vegetables:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables, pigeon peas, and fresh greens.
3. Make Spice Paste:
   • In a small bowl, mix ginger-garlic paste, green chili paste, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt to form a spice paste.
4. Assemble it:
   • Heat oil in a large pot. Add the spice paste and sauté for a minute. Add the mixed vegetables, grated coconut, and jaggery. Mix well.
5. Cooking it:
   • Cover and cook on a low flame, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Add the fried muthiyas and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
6. Garnish:
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. It is ready to be served.
7. Serve:
   • Serve it hot with puris or steamed rice.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Undhiyu, a delightful Gujarati dish that brings together a medley of winter vegetables and aromatic spices.

Can I make Undhiyu without using garlic or onion?

Yes, you can make a version of Undhiyu without using garlic or onion, which is often referred to as a “Jain Undhiyu.” In Jain cuisine, garlic and onions are typically avoided. Here’s how you can prepare it without garlic or onion:

Ingredients:

• Seasonal vegetables (as per your choice and availability)
• Fresh pigeon peas (tuvar dana), shelled
• Muthiyas (fenugreek dumplings)
• Fresh toor leaves, coriander leaves, and fenugreek leaves
• Grated coconut
• Ginger-green chili paste
• Coriander powder
• Cumin powder
• Turmeric powder
• Jaggery (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Oil

Instructions:

1. Follow the steps for making muthiyas separately, ensuring they don’t contain garlic or onion.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ginger-green chili paste, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt to create a spice paste.
3. In a heavy-bottomed pot, layer the seasonal vegetables, pigeon peas, fresh toor leaves, coriander leaves, and fenugreek leaves.
4. Add the spice paste and grated coconut to the vegetables.
5. Gently mix the vegetables with the spice paste and coconut, ensuring even distribution.
6. If using, add jaggery for a hint of sweetness.
7. Cook the Undhiyu on a low flame, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Be cautious not to overcook.
8. Integrate the fried muthiyas into the Undhiyu during the last few minutes of cooking.
9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

By omitting garlic and onion, this version of it adheres to Jain dietary restrictions. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference and enjoy this Jain Undhiyu with your choice of bread or rice.

Nutritional Value.

The nutritional value of it can vary based on specific ingredients and proportions used in the recipe. Here’s a general overview of the approximate nutritional content per serving:

Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on the actual ingredients and quantities used in your preparation.

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving (1 cup).
• Protein: Around 5-8 grams.
• Fat: 10-15 grams, depending on the use of oil and coconut.
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams.
• Fiber: 5-8 grams.
• Vitamins and Minerals: it is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and folate, thanks to the diverse array of vegetables used.

Keep in mind that these values are influenced by factors such as the specific vegetables, the amount of oil and coconut used, and any additional ingredients in your Undhiyu recipe. For a more accurate assessment, it’s recommended to calculate based on the exact ingredients and quantities you use.

Health Benefits.

Undhiyu, a traditional Gujarati dish made with a variety of seasonal vegetables and spices, offers several health benefits:

1. Rich in Nutrients: It contains a diverse range of vegetables, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary for overall health.
2. Fiber Content: The dish is typically high in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and aiding in weight management.
3. Vitamin C: Vegetables like valor papdi and fresh greens contribute to the vitamin C content, which supports the immune system and skin health.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some of the spices used in it, such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic, have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit overall well-being.
5. Heart Health: The inclusion of vegetables and the limited use of oil align with heart-healthy dietary practices, potentially supporting cardiovascular health.
6. Blood Sugar Control: The fiber content in it, combined with the presence of complex carbohydrates from vegetables, may contribute to better blood sugar control.
7. Diverse Nutrient Profile: Different vegetables in Undhiyu offer a wide array of nutrients, promoting a balanced and varied diet.
8. Supports Eye Health: Vegetables like sweet potatoes and fresh greens contain nutrients like beta-carotene, beneficial for eye health.
9. Boosts Energy: The combination of carbohydrates from various vegetables provides sustained energy, supporting daily activities.
10. Cultural Significance: Enjoying traditional dishes like Undhiyu as part of a balanced diet contributes to cultural and emotional well-being, fostering a sense of connection and enjoyment around food.

It’s important to note that the overall health benefits depend on factors such as ingredient choices, cooking methods, and individual dietary needs. As with any dish, moderation and a balanced approach to diet are key for optimal health.

Tips and Tricks.

Creating a perfect Undhiyu involves attention to detail and traditional techniques. Here are some tips and tricks to enhance your Undhiyu preparation:

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients:
   • Opt for fresh, seasonal vegetables to ensure maximum flavor and nutritional value.
2. Prepare Muthiyas with Care:
   • When making muthiyas (fenugreek dumplings), ensure the dough is firm but not too dry. Fry them until golden brown for a delightful texture.
3. Blend Spices Well:
   • Blend the spice paste thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors in it.
4. Layer Ingredients:
   • Layer the vegetables in the cooking pot based on their cooking times. Place those that take longer to cook at the bottom.
5. Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot:
   • Cooking it in a heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning.
6. Low Flame Cooking:
   • Cook it on a low flame to allow the vegetables to absorb the spices and flavors gradually.
7. Stir Gently:
   • Stir the Undhiyu gently to avoid breaking the vegetables, especially delicate ones like brinjals.
8. Adjust Spice Levels:
   • Taste the spice paste before adding it to the vegetables. Adjust the spice levels and sweetness according to your preference.
9. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
   • Garnish Undhiyu with fresh coriander leaves just before serving for a burst of freshness.
10. Serve Hot:
    • Undhiyu is best enjoyed hot, so serve it immediately after cooking for the most vibrant flavors.
11. Traditional Cooking Methods:
    • If possible, try cooking it in an earthen pot (matlu) for an authentic touch.
12. Experiment with Vegetables:
    • While traditional it has specific vegetables, feel free to experiment with seasonal variations for a unique twist.
13. Combine with Rotis or Puri:
    • Serve it with traditional Indian bread like rotis or puris for a wholesome meal.

By following these tips, you can create a flavorful and authentic Undhiyu that captures the essence of this beloved Gujarati dish.

Serving Suggestions.

Undhiyu is a versatile dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance it experience:

1. Puris:
   • Undhiyu is often served with puris (deep-fried Indian bread). The combination of crispy puris and flavorful Undhiyu is a classic and delicious choice.
2. Rotis or Chapatis:
   • Enjoy it with soft rotis or chapatis for a wholesome and healthier option.
3. Steamed Rice:
   • Serve it over steamed rice for a comforting and fulfilling meal.
4. Gujarati Kadhi:
   • Pair it with Gujarati kadhi, a yogurt-based curry with gram flour, for a well-rounded and traditional Gujarati meal.
5. Pickles and Chutneys:
   • Accompany Undhiyu with a selection of Indian pickles or chutneys to add contrasting flavors.
6. Sliced Onions and Lemon Wedges:
   • Serve thinly sliced onions and lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing and tangy element.
7. Raita:
   • A cooling cucumber raita or yogurt-based side dish can complement the spiciness of Undhiyu.
8. Sev:
   • Garnish it with sev (crispy chickpea flour noodles) just before serving for added texture.
9. Fresh Coriander Sprigs:
   • Garnish with fresh coriander sprigs for a burst of color and freshness.
10. Roasted Papad:
    • Serve roasted papad (thin, crisp disc-shaped snacks) on the side for a crunchy element.
11. Mixed Vegetable Pulao:
    • For a festive meal, pair it with a fragrant mixed vegetable pulao.
12. Sliced Tomatoes:
    • Add slices of fresh tomatoes to the plate for a juicy and slightly tangy element.
13. Masala Chaas (Spiced Buttermilk):
    • A glass of spiced buttermilk can be a refreshing and digestive beverage alongside Undhiyu.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions based on your preferences, creating a well-rounded and delightful dining experience with Undhiyu.

FAQs.