Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap: A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight

Introduction

Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap is a popular North Indian dish that features marinated and grilled millet-based chaap (mock meat) cooked in a rich and aromatic tomato-based gravy. This restaurant-style recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Let’s dive into the magic of flavors and learn how to make it at home!

Ingredients:

• 7 diced tomatoes
• 2 diced onions
• 6-7 cloves of garlic
• 1-inch ginger
• Handful of coriander stems
• 2 green chilies
• 1.5 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (for color and mild heat)
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp cashew nuts
• 3 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 cloves
• 1/2-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• Hot water (as needed)
• 2 tbsp cream
• 1 tsp kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• Desi Treat Millets Chaap (sliced into half and wooden stick removed)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomato Puree:
   • In a vessel, add diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, coriander stems, green chilies, Kashmiri chili powder, water, and cashew nuts.
   • Cover and simmer until everything is properly cooked.
   • Let it cool, blend it to a fine paste with some water, and strain it.
2. Create the Flavor Base:
   • Heat 3 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan.
   • Add 1 tsp cumin seeds, 2 cloves, 1/2-inch cinnamon stick, and 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder.
   • Stir in the blended tomato puree.
   • Cook until the gravy starts leaving oil.
3. Add Spices and Cream:
   • Add 1.5 tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp garam masala, salt, and some hot water.
   • Mix well and let the flavors meld.
   • Stir in 2 tbsp cream and 1 tsp kasoori methi.
4. Introduce the Chaap:
   • Add Desi Treat Millets Chaap (sliced into half and wooden stick removed).
   • Coat the chaap well with the masala.
5. Simmer and Serve:
   • Let the Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap simmer for a few minutes.
   • Serve it hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Tips:

• Adjust the spice levels according to your taste.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color.

Get ready to savor the magic of Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap—it’s a celebration of flavors! 🌿️❤️

Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap:

1. What is Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap?
   • Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap is a flavorful vegetarian dish made from marinated and grilled millet-based chaap (mock meat). It is cooked in a rich tomato-based gravy with aromatic spices.
2. What are the key ingredients for the tomato puree?
   • The tomato puree is made from diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, coriander stems, green chilies, Kashmiri chili powder, and cashew nuts. It forms the base of the gravy.
3. Can I adjust the spiciness level?
   • Absolutely! Adjust the amount of Kashmiri chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
4. What’s the role of mustard oil?
   • Mustard oil adds a unique flavor to the dish. If you prefer, you can use any other cooking oil.
5. Is this dish tangy?
   • Yes! The combination of curd (yogurt) and aamchoor (dried mango) powder provides a delightful tanginess.
6. Can I add other proteins or vegetables?
   • While the traditional recipe uses chaap, you can experiment with paneer, tofu, or mixed vegetables.
7. What’s the best way to serve it?
   • Serve Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Enjoy your flavorful Punjabi Tawa Masala Chaap—it’s a celebration of spices! 🌿️❤️