Tambdi Bhaji (Amaranth)
In Konkani, the word “tambdi” means Red, and “bhaji” means vegetable. In English, it translates to Red Amaranth leafy vegetable.
This is a commonly grown leafy vegetable in Goa.
It is not something you will find in the menus of fancy restaurants. But, I must say that the people of Goa love this vegetable.
Amaranth is one of the oldest grown vegetables and can date back to almost 7000 to 8000 years. It is dense in nutrition and hence quite a staple in most Indian homes.
An extremely simple method of flash cooking retains most of the nutrients. Even the tender stalks of this vegetable can be used for cooking. Make sure you give it a generous garnish of freshly grated coconut and it is ready to serve.
How to clean the Tambdi Bhaji ? :Â
Simply pluck the leaves and the stalks which are tender. Discard the wilted leaves if any.  Wash the plucked leaves in running water thrice to ensure the impurities are gone. Then soak the vegetable in water that has salt and turmeric in it and then drain the water out after three to five minutes.  That’s it ! Tambdi bhaji is ready to cook.Â
Traditionally, it is cooked with cold-pressed organic coconut oil.
Tambdi Bhaji
Ingredients :
- 3 cups of Amaranth leaves (Tambdi Bhaji / Lal Math) roughly chopped
- 1 medium-sized onion finely chopped
- 2 green chillies slit lengthwise
- 1 finely chopped garlic
- 1 tsp coconut oil (cold pressed) or any vegetable oil
- ¼ cup freshly grated coconut.
- 1 tbsp water
- Salt to taste
Method :
- Heat coconut oil in a skillet.
- Saute the garlic, green chillies, and then the chopped onions till just soft.
- Toss in the Amaranth leaves in the pan and stir on medium-high flame for a minute.
- Just add a tbsp of water. Cover and cook the vegetable for just two more minutes.
- Once the vegetable is softened and water has evaporated, sprinkle the grated fresh coconut and give it a final stir. It is ready.
- Serve hot.
These days, we keep looking for gluten-free, vegan options. This dish fits the bill. Go ahead and make this a part of your meals. You will love it.
An inexpensive and healthy way to have a simple Goan meal.
