Ragda (White Peas)

RAGDA

This is something which can be had as a little snack, mini-meal etc. White peas (dried) are used to make this dish and the best part is that once the base is prepared, you can make it according to individual tastes.

INGREDIENTS -

Base :-

White Peas - 2 handfuls

Turmeric powder - 1 tsp

Salt - to taste

Method 1 -

Boil all the above in a pressure cooker for 4 slow whistles. Keep aside when done.

Accompaniments : -

Cooking Oil - 1 tbsp

Ginger - garlic paste - 2 tsps

Red chilli powder (non spicy) - 2 tsps

Cumin (jeera) powder - 1 tsp

Coriander (dhania) powder - 1 tsp

Tamarind - 1 lime ball size (to be soaked in enough water)

Onion - 1 large (chopped)

Tomatoes - 2 medium (chopped)

Chaat masala - to taste

Pav/bread - depending on the no. of persons present

Usha has a very interesting post on the humble "pav" along with a picture on her website at

http://veginspirations.blogspot.com/2008/12/pav-bread-for-good-cause.html

Method 2 :-

1) Place the chopped onion and tomatoes, each, in 2 small bowls.

2) Place a wok (vessel) on the stove. Pour in the cooking oil. When the oil is hot, add the ginger-garlic paste and fry well.

3) Now add all the spice powders (except the chaat masala) and fry well, using a little water at a time. When oil starts showing and separating, turn off the stove and put the masala in a bowl.

4) Take the base in a plate, add the fried spice paste and tamarind water to taste. Sprinkle the chopped onions and tomatoes. Sprinkle some chaat masala too.

Now call your loved ones and let them combine the base with whatever they require.