Kafli Recipe: Pahadi cuisine is known for its unique flavors and traditional cooking methods. One such authentic dish from the Uttarakhand region is Kafli (also spelled Kafli or Kafali), a nutritious and flavorful spinach-based dish. This dish is packed with essential nutrients and is especially popular in Garhwal, where it is made using local mountain spinach. Even if you don’t have access to pahadi spinach, you can prepare Kafli using regular spinach found in plains. Let’s explore how to make this delicious and healthy dish at home.
Ingredients for Kafli Recipe
To prepare traditional Garhwali Kafli, you will need:
- 500g spinach (pahadi or regular)
- 4-5 garlic cloves
- ½ inch ginger
- 2 green chilies
- ½ cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tomato (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt (as per taste)
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil
- 2 cups water
Step-by-Step Method to Prepare Kafli
1. Clean and Blanch the Spinach
Start by sorting and washing the spinach thoroughly 4-5 times with cold water. Drain and set it aside. In a large pan, bring water to a boil. Once it starts boiling, add the spinach leaves and garlic cloves. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the spinach softens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
2. Prepare the Gram Flour Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix gram flour (besan) with a little water to form a smooth paste. Ensure the mixture is neither too thick nor too thin to avoid lumps.
3. Blend the Spinach
Once the boiled spinach cools down, transfer it to a grinder. Add the cooked garlic cloves, ginger, and green chilies. Blend everything into a smooth paste.
4. Prepare the Gravy
Heat mustard oil in a pan. Once the oil is hot, add finely chopped onions and sauté them until golden brown. Then, add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.
5. Add the Spices
Once the tomatoes are well cooked, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix everything well and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the Gram Flour Paste
Pour the gram flour mixture into the pan while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Cook it on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid sticking to the bottom.
7. Combine the Spinach Paste
Now, add the blended spinach mixture to the pan and stir well. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes on low flame, allowing the flavors to blend.
8. Adjust the Consistency
Add 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil for about 5 minutes. Reduce the flame and let it simmer for a few more minutes until the desired consistency is achieved.
Serving Suggestions
Kafli is best enjoyed with steamed rice (bhatt) for a wholesome, traditional meal. Serve it hot and savor the authentic taste of Garhwal.
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Health Benefits of Kafli
- Rich in Iron & Fiber: Spinach boosts hemoglobin levels and aids digestion.
- Boosts Immunity: Garlic and ginger enhance immunity and fight infections.
- Good for Bones & Eyes: Loaded with essential vitamins and minerals.
Kafli is a delicious and highly nutritious dish that showcases the flavors of traditional Garhwali cuisine. Whether you are from Uttarakhand or simply love regional Indian food, this recipe is a must-try!
For more traditional Pahadi recipes, stay connected with us. If you try this dish, don’t forget to share your feedback!
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