When it comes to comfort food, we all have our preferences. After all, rest means something different to each of us. Some of us may find solace in pakodas, samosas or French fries, while others may rely on nutritious options like dal rice, kadhi rice or idli-sambar. There is a special kind of comfort found in traditional dishes and their delicious taste in India. Today, let us introduce you to one such traditional comfort food from the state of Maharashtra: Metkut Bhaat. We will also discuss how you can prepare it easily at home.
What is Metkut Bhaat?
Metkut refers to the spice mixture.Photo Credit: iStock
Metkut Bhaat is a Maharashtrian dish that usually consists of rice and ghee mixed with metkut powder. Metkut is an aromatic spice mixture made by grinding roasted lentils, whole spices and many other everyday ingredients. The masala powder thus prepared can be stored for a long time and flavored as per your choice. Rice is a popular accompaniment, but curd and roti/bhakri can also be paired with this spice mixture. While every household may have its own version of metkut, common ingredients include chana dal, urad dal, coriander seeds, cumin, turmeric powder, chili powder and other spices.
Also read: Have you heard about Bafat Masala? Easy way to make this traditional spice mix at home
Is Metkut Bhaat healthy?
Metkut Bhaat not only provides peace of mind but also provides many health benefits. The spices used in metkut masala are rich in a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Additionally, this spice mix also contains a certain amount of protein due to the inclusion of different types of pulses. Remember, the full deliciousness of Metkut Bhaat also includes ghee and rice. Ghee provides you with energy and nutrition, while rice keeps you satiated as always. But the benefit of Metkut Bhaat mainly lies in the strength of its traditional ingredients and its simplicity.
How to make metkut bhaat at home. Easy Recipe of Maharashtrian Metkut Powder
Make sure you keep the metkut masala in an airtight jar.Photo Credit: iStock
Dry roast chana dal, urad dal, yellow moong and raw rice grains separately in a thick bottomed pan. The flame should be on low to medium flame. Once they change color, transfer each of them to a tray to cool. In the same pan add flour, turmeric, asafoetida, chilli powder, fenugreek seeds, cumin and other seeds. Also add all the spices along with salt. Do not turn on the stove. Fry the ingredients together for some time and then mix them with the already roasted pulses. Grind all the ingredients and make a fine powder.
Also read: How to make delicious Maharashtrian fodnicha bhaat at home (quick recipe inside)
For Metkut’s complete ingredient list and recipe, click here
To make metkut bhaat, simply mix cooked rice with ghee and metkut powder as per taste. Store leftover spices in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
We are sure that you already have many spices at home. Add metakut powder to your cooking arsenal and use it to bring some variety to your meals. Try preparing Mekut Bhaat soon and you will see how delicious and comforting it is!
