Spicy Roasted Soybean Salad (भटमास साधेको)
About Spicy Roasted Soybean Salad (भटमास साधेको)
Bhatmas Sadheko is a popular and ubiquitous snack in Nepal. It's made with roasted soybeans that are then tossed with a variety of spices, chili, onion, and sometimes other flavorful additions. This dish is enjoyed across Nepal as a light meal, side dish, or a quick and nutritious bite, often accompanying tea or other beverages. It's a staple in many households and is also readily available in street food stalls and local eateries.

History
The history of Bhatmas Sadheko is deeply rooted in the agricultural practices and culinary traditions of Nepal. Soybeans have been cultivated in Nepal for centuries, primarily in the hilly regions where they thrive in the cooler climates. The practice of roasting soybeans to enhance their flavor and preserve them would have developed naturally. Over time, the method of adding spices and other ingredients to roasted soybeans likely emerged as a way to create a more satisfying and flavorful snack. Bhatmas Sadheko has evolved from a simple way to consume roasted soybeans into a beloved dish, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Nepali cuisine. Its widespread popularity across different communities and regions in Nepal suggests that its origins stem from a long-standing practice of utilizing readily available local ingredients. However, specific dates or origins are hard to pinpoint as this is a traditional food with strong regional variations and not specifically documented in formal culinary records.
How to prepare?
Learn step by step to prepare Spicy Roasted Soybean Salad
- 1Wash the soybeans and soak them in water for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. This will soften them.
- 2Drain the water from the soaked soybeans.
- 3Heat a pan or a skillet over medium heat. Add the soaked soybeans and dry roast them. Stir continuously until they become dry and start to turn light brown.
- 4Continue to roast them until they are well roasted with some char. This can take about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
- 5Remove the roasted soybeans from the pan and let them cool slightly.
- 6In a mixing bowl, add the roasted soybeans, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and mix well. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- 7In a small pan heat the cooking oil. Add the green chilies and onion and saute for a few minutes.
- 8Add the sauteed mixture to the roasted soybeans. If adding ginger or cilantro, add them at this time as well.
- 9Squeeze a little lemon juice over the mixture if using.
- 10Mix everything well.
- 11Serve immediately or store it in an airtight container once cooled.
