Low Carb Varan Bhat
Indulge in the comforting flavors of traditional Maharashtrian cuisine with a health-conscious twist in this Low Carb Varan Bhat recipe. Perfect for those seeking a lighter meal, this dish replaces classic steamed rice with nutrient-packed cauliflower rice, keeping the carbs in check without compromising on taste. Featuring creamy yellow split pigeon peas (toor dal) simmered with earthy turmeric, aromatic ghee-based tempering, and fresh lemon juice for a bright finish, every bite is filled with wholesome goodness. Garnished with vibrant chopped cilantro and served warm, this low-carb version captures the essence of traditional Varan Bhat while offering a guilt-free way to enjoy this iconic dish. Easy to prepare and ready in under 45 minutes, it’s a perfect fit for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply craving a lighter yet satisfying Indian meal, this recipe is an unmissable delight!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Yellow split pigeon peas (toor dal)
- 3 cups Water
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Ghee (clarified butter)
- 0.5 teaspoon Mustard seeds
- 0.25 teaspoon Asafoetida (hing)
- 8 leaves Curry leaves
- 1 Green chili, slit lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon Fresh lemon juice
- 3 cups Cauliflower rice
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 20 minutes.
Drain the soaked dal and transfer it to a pressure cooker. Add 3 cups of water and turmeric powder.
Cook the dal in the pressure cooker for 3 whistles or until it is soft and mushy. Let the pressure release naturally.
Once the dal is cooked, mash it lightly with a ladle or whisk. Add salt and set aside.
In a small pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
Add asafoetida, curry leaves, and the slit green chili. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour the tempering into the cooked dal and mix well. Simmer the dal for 5 minutes and add fresh lemon juice. Stir to combine.
For the low-carb substitute: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the cauliflower rice. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened but not mushy. Season with a small pinch of salt, if desired.
Serve the dal warm over the sautéed cauliflower rice, garnished with chopped cilantro. Enjoy your low-carb Varan Bhat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
946 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.5 g | 24% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.5 g | 48% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 36 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 1354 mg | 59% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 152.1 g | 55% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 40.1 g | 143% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.8 g | ||
| Protein | 53.2 g | 106% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 272 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 12.2 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 3704 mg | 79% | |
*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.
