A taste of Indian Highways : Lahsooni Methi
Stopping at a roadside dhaba after a lengthy road journey in India has a certain allure. It is a unique culinary experience, complete with the smoky tandoor, the aroma of sizzling spices, and the sound of rotis being slapped onto hot griddles.
Lahsooni Methi, a simple yet potent blend of garlic (lahsoon) and fenugreek leaves (methi) cooked in butter and spices, is one dish that frequently sticks out at these primitive restaurants. Deep, earthy tastes, a hint of methi bitterness, and the enticing richness of garlic abound in this meal.
Exploring the Richness of Lahsooni Methi
I still recall trying this meal for the first time at a dhaba on the highway outside of Amritsar. It was absolute joy, served with a large dollop of handmade butter and hot tandoori rotis. I had to make this dish at home because the tastes were so strong yet reassuring. And I’m giving you that recipe today!
INGREDIENTS : THE SOUL OF LAHSOONI METHI
1.Base Ingredients for lahsooni methi
2 cups fresh methi leaves (fenugreek), finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter/ghee (for richness)
1 tablespoon oil (to balance the butter’s heaviness)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
8-10 garlic cloves, finely chopped (the hero ingredient!)
2 green chilies, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
1 tomato, finely chopped
2.Spices & Seasoning for lahsooni methi
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
½ teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
3.For Creaminess & Balance for lahsooni methi
- 2 tablespoons fresh cream or malai (adds a subtle richness)
- ¼ cup milk (optional, for a creamier texture)
INSTRUCTIONS FOR LAHSOONI METHI
Step 1: Preparing the Methi Leaves for lahsooni methi
Although methi leaves have a tiny bitterness by nature, we may reduce it with this easy trick:
a) Thoroughly wash the methi leaves.
b) After giving them a little salt, give them ten minutes to relax.
c) Squeeze off any extra water after ten minutes to help eliminate the bitterness without sacrificing flavor
Step 2: Infuse the garlic flavor for lahsooni methi
a) In a pan, heat the butter or ghee and oil.
b) Allow the cumin and mustard seeds to crackle for a few seconds after adding them.
c) Add the finely chopped garlic and cook it until it becomes golden. The distinctive “lahsooni” flavor of this meal comes from the perfume of roasted garlic.
d) For further spiciness, add green chiles.
Step 3: Creating the Base
a) Add chopped onions and cook till golden brown and tender.
b) Cook until the tomatoes are soft after adding the diced tomatoes.
c) Add salt, turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. After thoroughly mixing, let the masala a minute to cook.
Step 4: Adding the Star Ingredient- METHI !
a) Stir thoroughly after adding the squeezed methi leaves.
b) Add the methi and masala and cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes.
c) Add the cream, stirring just enough to make it creamy.
d) Top with garam masala and stir thoroughly.
e) After two more minutes of shimmering, turn off the heat.
HOW TO SERVE LAHSOONI METHI
- Lahsooni methi is best enjoyed when serve with soft phulkas or tandoori rotis, which are the ideal way to mop up all that garlicky goodness, for the complete dhaba experience.
- Jeera Rice : A straightforward yet delectable combination with lahsooni methi.
- Extra Butter on Top: Dhaba cuisine is all about decadence.
Expert Advice for That Real Dhaba Flavor ; LAHSOONI METHI
1. Use Desi Ghee: Use pure Desi ghee rather of butter if you want a deeper flavor. There’s a big difference in the scent!
2. More garlic? Always! Admire garlic? For added impact, try topping with a couple slices of crispy-fried garlic.
3. Make It Smoky: Try the dhungar (smoke) approach for a true dhaba-style flavor. Place a small piece of red-hot charcoal in the center of the dish in a steel bowl, cover it with a drop of ghee, and heat it for a minute. This dish will be elevated by the smoky scent!
4. Add Paneer for Variation: To create Lahsooni Methi Paneer, add some paneer cubes if you enjoy heartier dishes.
Why You Must Try LAHSOONI METHI
1. Strong Flavors: Butter, methi, and garlic combine to produce a delicious flavor.
2. Easy & Quick: It takes less than 30 minutes to make!
3. Nutritious and Healthful Methi is a great source of iron, fiber, and antioxidants.
Therefore, create Lahsooni Methi at home instead of ordering takeout the next time you’re craving a real dhaba-style supper. Give this dish a try and leave a comment with your results!
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