Handvo is a delightful and savory Gujarati baked dish that combines wholesome grains and lentils with the freshness of grated bottle gourd and aromatic spices. Packed with protein-rich ingredients like rice, chana dal, toor dal, and urad dal, this traditional recipe stands out for its unique fermentation process that enhances both flavor and texture. The batter is infused with yogurt for a tangy depth, spiced with ginger, chilies, and fenugreek leaves, and tempered with mustard and sesame seeds for a crisp golden crust. Handvo is baked to perfection, resulting in a soft and fluffy interior with a crunchy exterior. Ideal as a nutritious snack or light meal, this one-pot wonder is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with chutneys or a hot cup of chai. Whether you're exploring Gujarati cuisine or seeking healthy baked recipes, Handvo is sure to impress!
Rinse and soak rice and all the dals (chana, toor, urad) in enough water for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Drain the water and grind the soaked rice and dals to a slightly coarse batter using a blender or mixer. Add water as needed to get a thick pancake batter consistency.
Transfer the batter to a large mixing bowl and add yogurt. Mix well, cover, and let the batter ferment for 6-8 hours in a warm place.
Once fermented, add the grated bottle gourd, green chili, ginger, turmeric powder, red chili powder, fenugreek leaves, salt, and sugar to the batter. Mix well.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or deep pan with oil.
Just before baking, add baking soda to the batter and gently fold it in.
In a small frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle. Add sesame seeds and sauté for a few seconds. Pour this tempering over the batter and mix gently.
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a few more sesame seeds on top if desired.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the Handvo to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as a snack or light meal.
Calories |
1789 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 75.3 g | 97% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.3 g | 42% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 16 mg | 5% | |
| Sodium | 3511 mg | 153% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 222.2 g | 81% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 47.7 g | 170% | |
| Total Sugars | 27.9 g | ||
| Protein | 66.9 g | 134% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 452 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 17.6 mg | 98% | |
| Potassium | 3592 mg | 76% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.