Here’s a recipe for Lachha Paratha and Veg Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) curry using Upvas flour, suitable for Ekadashi or Vrat fasting in India. This recipe adheres to Swaminarayan Vegetarian dietary restrictions and does not include onion or garlic.
Instructions:
For Lachha Paratha:
Prepare the Dough:
a. In a mixing bowl, combine the Upvas flour, sendha namak, and 2 tablespoons of ghee.
b. Gradually add warm water and knead the mixture into a soft, smooth dough. The dough should be pliable and not too sticky. Adjust the water or flour if needed.
c. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.
Shape and Cook the Parathas:
a. Divide the rested dough into equal-sized portions and roll them into balls.
b. Take one dough ball and flatten it into a small disc using your palm or a rolling pin.
c. Brush the disc with ghee and sprinkle some Upvas flour on it.
d. Make small folds, like pleats, along the length of the disc.
e. Roll the pleated disc into a tight coil.
f. Gently press the coil to flatten it slightly.
g. Roll out the flattened coil into a thin disc, taking care not to break it. Repeat this process for the remaining dough balls.
h. Heat a skillet (tava) over medium heat and cook the rolled paratha on both sides, using ghee or oil, until it’s golden brown and crispy.
i. Remove from heat and keep the parathas warm in a covered container.
For Veg Paneer Curry:
Prepare the Curry:
a. Heat ghee in a pan or kadai over medium heat.
b. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
c. Add the grated ginger and green chili paste. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
d. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and the ghee begins to separate.
e. Add sendha namak, roasted cumin powder, black pepper powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
f. Add the chopped mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes until they become slightly tender.
g. Stir in the whisked yogurt and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
h. Add water to achieve your desired consistency for the curry.
i. Add the paneer cubes and simmer for a few minutes until the paneer is heated through.
Serve:
a. Garnish the Veg Paneer Curry with fresh coriander leaves.
b. Serve the hot Lachha Parathas with the Veg Paneer Curry. Enjoy your Vrat-friendly meal!
Cooking Time: The estimated cooking time for this recipe is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on your cooking speed and the number of parathas and curry servings you’re preparing.