Recipies

Tarkari Set (तरकारी सेट)

About Tarkari Set (तरकारी सेट)

Tarkari Set, meaning 'vegetable set,' is a staple meal in Nepal, often enjoyed daily. It's a simple, balanced, and customizable dish consisting of various cooked vegetables, lentils, rice, and sometimes a side of pickle or curd. It showcases the versatility of Nepali cuisine and emphasizes fresh, seasonal produce.

Picture of Tarkari Set

History

The history of Tarkari Set is deeply rooted in Nepal's agricultural traditions and resource availability. For centuries, Nepali people, primarily farmers, have relied on locally grown vegetables and lentils as their primary food source. The 'Tarkari Set' evolved as a practical and nutritious way to combine these readily available ingredients. It reflects the country's diverse regional landscapes and climates; different areas have their own unique variations using local produce and spices. The set meal concept emphasizes minimal food waste and maximum nutritional intake. It's a testament to Nepal's historical ingenuity in creating flavorful and sustaining meals from simple ingredients. It has become a cultural marker for Nepali cuisine, found across various socio-economic levels, from humble homes to bustling restaurants.

Fact 1

Tarkari Set is a vegetarian-friendly meal, though meat or fish can be added on occasion.

How to prepare?

Rice - 1 cupLentils (Dal) - 1/2 cupPotatoes - 2 mediumCauliflower - 1/2 headSpinach or other green leafy vegetables - 1 cupOnion - 1 mediumGarlic - 2 clovesGinger - 1 inch pieceTomato - 1 mediumTurmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoonCumin powder - 1 teaspoonCoriander powder - 1 teaspoonChili powder - 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)Cooking oil - 2 tablespoonsSalt - to tasteWater - as neededPickle (achar) or curd - Optional

Learn step by step to prepare Tarkari Set

  • 1
    Wash the rice and cook it according to your usual method.
  • 2
    Wash and soak lentils for about 30 mins. Then cook until soft.
  • 3
    Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
  • 4
    Finely chop the onion, garlic and ginger.
  • 5
    Heat oil in a pot. Sauté chopped onion, garlic and ginger until golden brown.
  • 6
    Add the chopped tomato and cook till its soft
  • 7
    Add turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder, and sauté for a minute.
  • 8
    Add the chopped vegetables, salt, and a little water. Cover and cook until vegetables are tender.
  • 9
    Add the cooked lentils to the cooked vegetables and gently mix it, then simmer for some time.
  • 10
    Serve hot rice with the cooked vegetable and lentil stew, and a side of pickle or curd, if desired.
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