Description

Vangibhat Recipe with Iyengar Naivedyam Special Vangibhat Powder

Vangibhat is a flavorful South Indian rice dish made with brinjal and a special spice mix. This Vangibhat Recipe is often prepared in the Iyengar community, especially during festive meals or as a naivedyam (offering) to the deities. The dish stands out because of the unique Iyengar Naivedyam Vangibhat powder, which gives it its distinct and delicious flavor.

Ingredients:

For the rice:

• 1 cup rice (sona masoori or medium-grain)
• 2 cups water
• A pinch of turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp oil

For the Vangibhat:

• 1 medium-sized brinjal , chopped into small cubes
• 2-3 tbsp Iyengar Naivedyam Vangibhat powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp oil (preferably sesame or cooking oil)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp urad dal (split black gram)
• 1 tsp chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 2 dried red chilies
• A pinch of turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp grated fresh coconut (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Cook the Rice

First, wash the rice thoroughly and cook it in 2 cups of water with turmeric and a pinch of salt. Once the rice is done, spread it on a wide plate to cool. To prevent the grains from sticking together, drizzle 1 tsp of oil over the rice.

Step 2: Prepare the Vangibhat Masala

Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Next, add the urad dal, chana dal, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Fry until the dals turn golden and crisp. After that, add asafoetida, turmeric, and the chopped brinjal. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, and then sprinkle a little salt to help the brinjal cook faster.

Step 3: Add the Vangibhat Powder

Once the brinjal softens, add 2-3 tbsp of Iyengar Naivedyam Vangibhat powder. Stir the mixture well to coat the brinjal evenly with the spices. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes, ensuring the brinjal is fully cooked and the spices are well absorbed. If the masala seems dry, add a splash of water to prevent burning.

Step 4: Mix with Cooked Rice

Now that the brinjal is cooked, gently fold the cooled rice into the brinjal mixture. Make sure the rice grains are well coated with the masala and brinjal. Taste the dish and adjust the salt if necessary. If you’d like a richer flavor, feel free to add some grated coconut at this stage.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is well mixed, turn off the heat and garnish the Vangibhat with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Finally, serve the Vangibhat hot with raita, papad, or a side of yogurt.

Tips:

• For variations of this Vangibhat Recipe, you can replace brinjal with capsicum, potato, or mixed vegetables.
• The Iyengar Naivedyam Vangibhat powder is key to achieving an authentic taste, so it’s best not to substitute it with other masalas.
• Always use fresh ingredients to enhance the flavors of this dish.

Final Thoughts:

This Vangibhat Recipe, made with Iyengar Naivedyam Vangibhat powder, offers a delicious taste of traditional South Indian cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a simple comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. The combination of flavorful brinjal, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked rice brings the essence of Iyengar cooking straight to your plate.