Santula
Santula is a traditional vegetable dish from the state of Odisha in eastern India. Known for its simplicity and nutritional benefits, Santula can be prepared in two variations: fried (bhaja santula) and boiled (sijha santula). This dish is especially appreciated for its mild flavors and easy digestibility, making it an ideal choice for individuals with stomach disorders or those seeking a healthy, light meal.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Odia Cuisine
- 200 grams Potatoes
- 100 grams Eggplant
- 50 grams Papaya
- 50 grams Pumpkin
- Tomato
- 6 pieces Badi (dried lentil dumplings)
- 2 pieces Onion
- a small piece Ginger
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 1 tbsp Panch phoron
- 1/2 tbsp Turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp Oil
- 2-3 pieces Green chilies
- Salt to taste
- Additional oil and water as needed
Preparation of Ingredients:
Wash all the vegetables thoroughly and cut them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Boil the potatoes, eggplant, papaya, pumpkin, and tomato together until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
Fry the badi (dried lentil dumplings) in a little oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Crush them into small pieces and set them aside.
Finely chop the onions and green chilies. Grind the ginger and garlic together to form a smooth paste.
Cooking the Vegetables:
In a pot, add the boiled vegetables, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook on low heat for a few minutes to let the flavors combine.
Preparing the Seasoning:
In a separate pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the panch phoron (five spice mix) and let it splutter.
Add the finely chopped onions and green chilies to the pan. Fry them until the onions turn golden brown and aromatic.
Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Combining and Finishing:
Once the seasoning is ready, add the boiled vegetable mixture to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Cook for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Finally, add the crushed badi pieces to the mixture and stir well.
Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Santula, a wholesome and nutritious dish from Odia Cuisine, is now ready to be served. Enjoy this flavorful vegetable medley with rice or chapati.
Santula is often recommended for those needing a diet rich in fresh green vegetables without the heaviness of spices and oil, making it an excellent choice for a healthy and balanced meal.