What To Know
- In a large bowl, combine the readymade handvo flour with the required amount of water as mentioned on the package instructions.
- Gently fold in the yogurt to add a subtle tanginess and enhance the texture.
- Place the steaming dish in a steamer or a pot with a steamer insert.
Handvo, a savory steamed cake originating from Gujarat, is a delightful and healthy snack or light meal. While making handvo from scratch is rewarding, sometimes you crave its deliciousness without the time commitment. Luckily, readymade handvo flour has become readily available, making this beloved dish accessible for even the busiest cooks. This guide will walk you through the simple steps of preparing a delicious handvo using readymade flour.
What is Handvo Flour?
Handvo flour is a pre-mixed blend of ingredients specifically designed for making handvo. It typically includes rice flour, gram flour (besan), spices, and other flavorings. This pre-mixed option eliminates the need to measure and combine individual ingredients, simplifying the cooking process.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the following ingredients:
- Readymade Handvo Flour: The star of the show! Choose a brand you trust and one that aligns with your dietary preferences (like gluten-free or vegan options).
- Water: Use lukewarm water for a smoother batter consistency.
- Oil: For greasing the steaming dish. Vegetable oil or ghee work well.
- Yogurt: Adds a tangy flavor and helps create a fluffy texture.
- Vegetables: Chopped vegetables like carrots, green beans, potatoes, or even spinach add color, texture, and nutritional value.
- Spices: Fresh or dried spices like cumin seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, and red chili powder enhance the flavor profile.
Preparing the Batter
1. Mix the Flour: In a large bowl, combine the readymade handvo flour with the required amount of water as mentioned on the package instructions.
2. Whisk it Up: Whisk the mixture vigorously to ensure no lumps remain. The batter should have a smooth, slightly thick consistency.
3. Add Yogurt: Gently fold in the yogurt to add a subtle tanginess and enhance the texture.
4. Incorporate Vegetables: Add your chosen chopped vegetables to the batter and mix well.
5. Spice it Up: Season the batter with your desired spices. Remember to adjust the spice level to your preference.
Steaming the Handvo
1. Grease the Dish: Grease a round or square steaming dish with oil or ghee. This prevents the handvo from sticking.
2. Pour the Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased steaming dish.
3. Steam it Right: Place the steaming dish in a steamer or a pot with a steamer insert. Ensure there is enough water in the pot to steam the handvo properly.
4. Steaming Time: Steam the handvo for about 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving and Enjoying Your Handvo
1. Cool it Down: Once the handvo is cooked, let it cool slightly before slicing it into squares or wedges.
2. Serve it Up: Serve the handvo warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with chutneys, yogurt raita, or even a spicy green chili sauce.
Tips for a Perfect Handvo
- Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but not too thick to prevent steaming.
- Steaming Time: Over-steaming can make the handvo dry, so keep an eye on the steaming time.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the handvo tough. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different vegetables, spices, and herbs to customize your handvo.
Beyond the Basics: Variations in Handvo
The beauty of handvo lies in its versatility. Experiment with different ingredients to create unique flavors and textures:
- Spicy Handvo: Add extra red chili powder or green chilies for a fiery kick.
- Methi Handvo: Incorporate fresh methi leaves (fenugreek) for a distinct aroma and flavor.
- Paneer Handvo: Add crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a richer and more substantial dish.
- Sweet Handvo: For a sweet treat, add jaggery or sugar to the batter and include raisins or nuts.
The Final Touch: A Delicious End to Your Handvo Journey
As you savor your homemade handvo, remember that it’s not just a dish but a celebration of flavors and textures. The simplicity of using readymade flour allows you to enjoy this culinary delight without compromising on taste or quality.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use other flours instead of readymade handvo flour?
A: While readymade flour provides convenience, you can experiment with a combination of rice flour, gram flour, and a little bit of all-purpose flour.
Q: How long can I store leftover handvo?
A: Leftover handvo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Q: Can I freeze handvo?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked handvo for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What are some good accompaniments for handvo?
A: Handvo pairs well with chutneys like green chutney, mint chutney, or tamarind chutney. You can also serve it with yogurt raita, a spicy green chili sauce, or even a simple salad.
Making handvo from readymade flour is a delightful culinary journey that combines convenience with deliciousness. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the satisfying flavors of this beloved Gujarati dish!
