### Rajma Sundal – Varieties of Sundal for Navarathri (Dasara Festival)
Navratri approaches swiftly, ushering in a period of celebration, devotion, and culinary pleasures. Among the beloved offerings of this festival is Sundal, a tasty treat crafted from an assortment of legumes. Notably, Rajma Sundal is recognized for its simple preparation and delightful flavor, making it a cherished neivedhyam (offering) throughout the nine nights of Navratri.
#### What is Rajma Sundal?
Rajma, or red kidney beans, serves as the main component in Rajma Sundal. This dish is not only wholesome but also perfect for a light meal, suitable for breakfast or as an evening treat. The process necessitates soaking the rajma overnight, which aids in softening the beans and amplifying their taste. Following this, the beans are rinsed thoroughly and cooked under pressure until they achieve a tender texture.
#### Ingredients and Preparation
To create Rajma Sundal, it’s important to select high-quality rajma. The fundamental components consist of:
– Rajma (red kidney beans)
– Water (for soaking and cooking)
– Spices (mustard seeds, cumin seeds)
– Curry leaves
– Green chilies
– Fresh coconut (for garnishing)
– Salt (to taste)
The method initiates with soaking the rajma in ample water overnight. After soaking, drain and wash the beans prior to cooking them under pressure until soft.
After cooking, the subsequent step involves tempering the beans. Heat oil in a skillet, add mustard seeds, and let them pop. Next, introduce cumin seeds, curry leaves, and chopped green chilies. Briefly sauté before incorporating the cooked rajma into the pan. Stir thoroughly and season with salt. To elevate the flavor profile, you may sprinkle a spice mix made from roasted chana dal, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and dried red chilies over the sundal.
#### Variations of Sundal
Sundal can be created using a plethora of legumes and dals, rendering it a flexible dish. Some well-liked options include:
– **Kabuli Chana Sundal**: Crafted with white chickpeas.
– **Kala Chana Sundal**: Made with black chickpeas.
– **Black Eyed Peas Sundal**: Featuring lobia.
– **Peanut Sundal**: A delightful recipe using peanuts.
– **Battani Sundal**: Made with dried peas.
– **Chana Dal Sundal**: Utilizing split chickpeas.
– **Green Gram Sundal**: Made with mung beans.
– **Sweet Corn Sundal**: A sweeter variation incorporating corn.
Each variant is prepared in a similar manner, soaking, cooking, and tempering the legumes with spices, curry leaves, and garnished with fresh coconut.
#### Conclusion
Rajma Sundal serves as a scrumptious and nutritious choice to add to your Navratri festivities. Its straightforward preparation and delightful flavor make it an ideal offering during the celebration. Whether savored as a snack or included in a meal, Rajma Sundal is destined to be a favorite among family and friends throughout this festive time.