Olu Bharta (Mashed Elephant Yam)
Yams are being appreciated for their nutritional value and versatility in different cuisines. effective against hypertension, apparently also have anti-ageing properties and help maintain the hormonal balance in women.
Equipment
- 450 Gram elephant yam (also known as suran or mass yam)
- 1/2 cup tamarind pulp or sour yogurt (dahi)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons Mustard oil
- 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-3 dried red chili peppers, broken into pieces
- 10-12 fresh curry leaves
Instructions
- Rinse the elephant yam thoroughly and peel off the skin. Cut it into small pieces and boil it in salted water until tender.
- Drain the water and mash the boiled yam until it's smooth and creamy.
- Add tamarind pulp or sour yogurt to the mashed yam and mix well. Season with salt to taste.
- In a pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the minced garlic and dried red chili peppers to the pan and sauté for a minute.
- Add the curry leaves to the pan and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Add the mashed yam mixture to the pan and stir well to combine. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the pan from the heat and serve the Olu Bharta hot with rice or pakhala
Notes
Enjoy the delicious and nutritious Olu Bharta, a traditional dish from the Indian state of Odisha that's packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
It's worth noting that yams can sometimes cause allergic reactions in some people, so it's important to be cautious if you're trying them for the first time. Additionally, the nutritional content and health benefits of yams can vary depending on the variety and preparation method, so it's always a good idea to do your research and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or dietary restrictions.