maharashtrianEasyvegetariangluten freenut freesoy free
Ukde Tandul Pej
RATING
4.3/5(37)
TASTE SCORE
5/10
A simple and nourishing rice gruel made from parboiled rice, cooked until soft and creamy. This Maharashtrian comfort food is light on the stomach, seasoned with a touch of salt and ghee.
SERVINGS
4
INGREDIENTS
For 4 servings
NUTRITION · PER SERVING
186
186
CALORIES · 1.5 CUPS
Protein4g · 9%
Carbs39g · 84%
Fat1g · 5%
Fiber1g
Sodium441mg
Potassium78mg
Phosphorus66mg
INSTRUCTIONS
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
4 STEPS
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the rice: Rinse the parboiled rice under cold running water 2-3 times until the water runs mostly clear. Soak the rinsed rice in 2 cups of water for at least 30 minutes. This helps it cook faster and softer.
- 2
Cook the pej: Drain the soaking water from the rice
- a.In a deep pot or pressure cooker, combine the soaked rice, 5 cups of fresh water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer until soft: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice should be very soft and broken down, and the liquid should be thick and starchy. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 4-5 whistles on medium heat.
- 4
Serve: Check the consistency
- a.If the pej is too thick, add a little hot water and mix well. Pour the hot pej into serving bowls. Drizzle with a little ghee on top and serve immediately.
PRO TIPS
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a creamier texture, you can lightly mash the cooked rice with the back of a spoon against the side of the pot.
- 2Soaking the rice is highly recommended for a softer, more digestible gruel.
- 3The consistency is personal preference. Add more hot water for a thinner, more soupy pej, or cook it longer for a thicker one.
- 4Serve hot with a side of mango pickle, papad, or a simple vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.
RECIPE VARIATIONS
Adapt it for your goals.
vegan
Vegan
Simply omit the ghee or use a drizzle of coconut oil for a completely vegan version.
healthyHealthy
For added protein and fiber, cook the rice along with 1/4 cup of yellow moong dal (split petite yellow lentils).
kid friendlyKid friendly
Mash the pej very well to make it smooth. You can also add a splash of milk to make it creamier and milder for children.
quickQuick
Use a pressure cooker to make the pej. It will be ready in about 10-12 minutes (4-5 whistles) after coming to pressure.
PAIRS WELL WITH
