Undhiyu

• Nutrition Information (Estimated per serving): Calories: 350-400 kcal | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 20g 

• The Story Behind Undhiyu (History):

  Undhiyu is the king of Gujarati cuisine, a special winter delicacy from Surat. The name "Undhiyu" comes from the Gujarati word "undhu," meaning "upside down." Traditionally, the dish was cooked upside down in earthen pots (matlu) buried underground and fired from above. It's a complex, slow-cooked casserole of various winter vegetables and spiced fenugreek dumplings (muthiya).

  

  
  

• Ingredients (English):

• For Methi Muthia: 1 cup Fenugreek Leaves (chopped), 1 cup Gram Flour (Besan), Spices (turmeric, chili powder, salt).

• Vegetables: 1 cup Surti Papdi, ½ cup Tuvar Lilva, ½ cup Sweet Potato (cubed), ½ cup Purple Yam (cubed), 1 small Brinjal (cubed), 1 raw Banana (cubed).

• For Masala: 1 cup Grated Coconut, ½ cup Chopped Cilantro, 2 tbsp Ginger-Garlic-Chili Paste, 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds, 2 tbsp Peanut Powder, Spices (turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, salt).

• Other: ½ cup Oil.

• Method (English):

• Prep: Make small muthias from the dough and deep fry until golden. Prepare the green masala paste by mixing all masala ingredients.

• Layer: In a pressure cooker, heat oil. Add a layer of surti papdi. Sprinkle some masala.

• Add Veggies: Add layers of all other vegetables, sprinkling masala between each layer.

• Cook: Add the fried muthias on top. Add ½ cup of water. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles. Let pressure release naturally. Gently mix before serving.

Pro Tips & Fun Facts (Tidbits):

• The authentic flavor of Undhiyu comes from the specific winter vegetables used, especially Surti Papdi. The green masala, made from fresh cilantro and coconut, is the heart of the dish. The key is to layer the vegetables correctly, starting with the ones that take the longest to cook at the bottom.

  
  

  Instant Pot Method:

•  Prepare muthias. Use "Sauté" mode to layer the oil, vegetables, and masala. Top with muthias and ½ cup water. Pressure cook on "High" for 8 minutes. Let pressure release naturally.

• Air-Fryer Method (For Muthia):

• Shape muthias, spray with oil. Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden.