Denver, Colorado, United States

Moong Dal Chilla

Chillas or cheelas, similar to dosas and dhirdes, are more popular in North India and are made with chickpea or moong dal flour. I have been making these for several years for brunch as they are easy and filling. Sometimes I add chopped spinach…

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Dahi Pohe

This is a traditional breakfast served on the second day of Diwali, known as Naraka Chaturdashi but is a great way to start any morning of the year, especially in summer. A simple mix of pohe (flattened, dry rice), yogurt and milk is tempered…

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Millet and Tapioca Dhirde

Barnyard millet or varai and pearl tapioca or sabudana are both gluten-free and can be combined to make vegan and gluten-free pancakes. Since both are also the mainstay and permitted ingredients for fasting days, these small dhirdes (aka chillas, dosas, pancakes) are perfect for…

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Peanut Amti

Peanut amti can be described as a mild peanut sauce often paired with Varai Rice (barnyard millet) as a traditional meal on fasting days in Maharashtra. Made with roasted and ground peanuts, this nutty and toasty amti can be made in a jiffy if…

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Varai Rice

Technically a seed, varai is gluten-free and a good source of protein, carbohydrate, fiber, and, most notably, contains more micronutrients (iron and zinc) than other major cereals. Varai is also known as samo, samak, moraiyo, or bhagar and is often cooked for fasting days….

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