Health
Sabudana, also known as tapioca pearls, is a versatile ingredient commonly used in various dishes, especially during fasting in India. While we often associate sabudana with dishes like khichdi, vadas, or kheer, it can also be used to create a unique and delicious noodle dish. If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and gluten-free meal, Sabudana Noodles can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy days or when you’re craving something healthy and filling.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making Sabudana Noodles that are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
1 cup Sabudana (tapioca pearls)
1 tablespoon oil (coconut or vegetable oil)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 onion, finely chopped
1 green chili, chopped (optional)
1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, bell pepper, peas)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
Soak the Sabudana:
Begin by soaking the sabudana in water for about 15–20 minutes. The key to perfect sabudana noodles is ensuring that the pearls are neither too soft nor too hard. Drain any excess water after soaking, and let them sit in a colander to dry out a bit. This prevents them from becoming sticky when cooking.
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the sabudana is soaking, chop your vegetables. You can use a combination of carrots, bell peppers, peas, or any veggies you prefer. This adds color, texture, and nutrition to the dish. Keep the vegetables small and uniform in size for even cooking.
Heat Oil in a Pan:
In a large pan or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds. This will infuse the oil with a rich, earthy flavor.
Add the Vegetables:
Saute Onions and Spices:
Add the finely chopped onions and green chili (if using) to the pan. Sauté them until they turn golden brown. At this point, add turmeric powder and red chili powder for flavor and color. Stir well to coat the onions and spices evenly.
Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly but remain crunchy. If you like your vegetables tender, you can cook them a bit longer, but the key to this dish is retaining the crunchiness.
Add the Sabudana:
Now, add the soaked sabudana to the pan. Stir gently to combine everything well. Be careful not to break the pearls as they are delicate. Continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sabudana becomes translucent and slightly chewy.
Season and Garnish:
Season the noodles with salt to taste. If you’d like, squeeze in a bit of lemon juice to add a tangy flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and color.
Serve:
Your Sabudana Noodles are now ready to be served! You can enjoy them as a light meal on their own or pair them with a side of yogurt or chutney for added flavor. These noodles make for a delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and they’re great for those who are gluten-sensitive or looking for a low-calorie meal.
Why Choose Sabudana Noodles?
Sabudana is a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy without being too heavy. It’s also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion, and is a good source of iron, calcium, and B-vitamins. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be easily customized with different vegetables and spices to suit your preferences.
In just 15 minutes, you can create a satisfying and nutritious meal that is sure to please everyone in the family. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something quick and healthy, try making Sabudana Noodles for a refreshing change!
