Classic Gujarati Handvo RecipeVeg

Learn to make authentic Handvo, a traditional Gujarati savory vegetable cake crafted from a hearty blend of rice and lentils. This healthy, protein-packed dish is loaded with fresh vegetables like bottle gourd, cabbage, and carrots, then spiced to perfection. Baked to a beautiful golden brown with a crispy crust and soft interior, this aromatic treat is tempered with mustard seeds, sesame, and curry leaves. A satisfying, nutritious, and classic comfort food perfect for any meal.

Prep:8 min

Cook:45 min

Total:53 min

Serves:5

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Instructions

Step 1— Preparing and Fermenting the Batter

Prepare the Flour Mix: If not using pre-made Handvo flour, grind 1/2 cup rice, 1/4 cup toor dal, 1/4 cup chana dal, and 2 tbsp urad dal together into a fine powder (like fine suji texture).

Make the Batter: In a bowl, mix 1.5 cups of the flour mix with 1/2 cup plain yogurt and 1/4 cup oil.

Add Water and Mix: Add just enough water to create a thick batter. Do not add salt at this stage, as it slows down fermentation.

Ferment: Cover the bowl and allow the batter to ferment in a warm area for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 2— Baking the Handvo

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Tray: Grease a baking tray with oil. Optional: Place a few curry leaves at the bottom for flavor.

Season the Batter: To the fermented batter, add 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, salt to taste, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp dhana jeera powder, and chopped green chilies and ginger to taste.

Add Vegetables: Mix in 1 cup of shredded vegetables (cabbage, carrot, zucchini) and 2 tbsp ground peanuts (optional).

Pour and Temper: Pour the batter into the prepared tray and spread it evenly.

Add Tempering/Tadka: In a small pan, heat 1 tbsp oil. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds. Once they sputter, turn off heat and add 1/4 tsp hing (asafoetida) and 1 tsp sesame seeds. Pour this tempering over the batter in the tray.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 3— Serving

Cool and Cut: Allow the Handvo to cool slightly before cutting it into squares.