Rajasthan, known for its vibrant culture and rich heritage, also boasts an equally vibrant cuisine. Among its many culinary gems, Gatte Ki Sabzi stands out as a traditional and comforting dish loved across the region. Made from gram flour (besan) dumplings cooked in a tangy, spiced yogurt gravy, this dish is a perfect example of Rajasthani ingenuity—simple ingredients transformed into something spectacular.
If you’ve been wanting to try this authentic recipe at home but find it intimidating, worry no more! Here’s a 6-step easy guide to making delicious Gatte Ki Sabzi without any non-vegetarian ingredients, capturing the true essence of Rajasthan’s culinary legacy.
What is Gatte Ki Sabzi?
In Hindi, gatte means “rolls” or “dumplings,” and sabzi refers to vegetable curry or gravy. Gatte Ki Sabzi consists of gram flour dumplings simmered in a spicy yogurt-based curry. Traditionally, this dish is served with bajra roti (millet flatbread) or steamed rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
The dish is rich in protein thanks to besan, making it nutritious, filling, and perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4)
For the Gatte (Gram Flour Dumplings):
- 1 cup besan (gram flour)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 tablespoon oil (plus more for cooking)
- Salt to taste
- Water (enough to knead the dough)
For the Yogurt Gravy:
- 1 cup fresh yogurt (curd), whisked smooth (use vegan yogurt for dairy-free)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 pinch asafoetida (hing)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Step 1: Prepare the Gram Flour Dough for Gatte
Start by making the dough for your gram flour dumplings:
- In a mixing bowl, add besan, red chili powder, turmeric powder, carom seeds, and salt.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil and mix well to combine.
- Gradually add water and knead into a firm, smooth dough—similar to chapati dough but a bit stiffer.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set aside for 15-20 minutes to rest.
Pro Tip: Resting helps the besan absorb moisture, making the dumplings softer after cooking.
Step 2: Shape and Cook the Gatte
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a long, thin cylinder about 1 inch thick.
- Heat water in a large pan with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of oil (to prevent sticking).
- Once boiling, gently add the gatte rolls and cook for 10-12 minutes on medium heat. They will float to the surface when done.
- Remove the cooked gatte rolls and immediately rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Cut them into 1-inch pieces (rounds). Set aside.
Note: Boiling gatte before frying helps achieve a tender yet firm texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Tangy Yogurt Gravy
This step gives the dish its signature flavor—spicy, tangy, and creamy.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan.
- Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they begin to splutter, add a pinch of asafoetida.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
- Toss in green chilies if you like heat.
- Lower the flame and add the whisked yogurt gradually, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
- Add red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt.
- Stir well and cook for 5-6 minutes on low heat until the spices blend well with the yogurt.
Tip: Keep the heat low and stir constantly to avoid the yogurt separating.
Step 4: Combine Gatte with the Gravy
- Add the cooked, sliced gatte pieces into the simmering yogurt gravy.
- Mix gently to coat the dumplings with the sauce.
- Pour about 1 cup of water to adjust the consistency—you want a thick but pourable curry.
- Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the gatte to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnishing
- Check for salt and spice, adjusting as needed.
- For an extra depth of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves on top.
- You can also drizzle a teaspoon of hot mustard oil or ghee over the curry if you prefer an authentic touch.
Step 6: Serve Gatte Ki Sabzi the Traditional Way
- Serve hot with bajra roti, missi roti, or steamed rice.
- It also pairs wonderfully with plain chapatis or parathas.
- Add a side of fresh salad, pickles, or yogurt for a complete meal.
Why Gatte Ki Sabzi is a Nutritional Powerhouse
- Besan (gram flour) is a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Yogurt adds probiotics and calcium.
- The spices used, like turmeric and cumin, have anti-inflammatory and digestion-boosting properties.
- It’s a wholesome, filling meal perfect for vegetarians and vegans (using vegan yogurt).
Tips for Making the Perfect Gatte Ki Sabzi
- Avoid overcooking the gatte: They should be firm but not hard to bite.
- Use fresh yogurt: It lends creaminess and tanginess that canned or powdered yogurts can’t match.
- Control the spice level: Adjust the chili and green chilies based on your taste.
- Make it ahead: Gatte Ki Sabzi tastes even better the next day when the flavors mature.
- Try oven-baking: For a healthier twist, bake the gatte rolls instead of boiling and frying.
Variations You Can Try
- Besan Gatte Curry without yogurt: Use tomato-based gravy for a different flavor.
- Add vegetables: Mix in peas, potatoes, or spinach for a wholesome twist.
- Dry Gatte Sabzi: Toss cooked gatte with spices and herbs for a dry curry variation.
- Use different flours: Experiment with chickpea and millet flour for unique textures.
In Conclusion
Gatte Ki Sabzi is a shining example of how simple, humble ingredients can come together to create a dish packed with flavor and tradition. With these 6 easy steps, you can bring the heart of Rajasthan into your kitchen without the hassle or mess, all while keeping it vegetarian and wholesome.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself to something special, this authentic Rajasthani recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So next time you crave something rich, spicy, and utterly satisfying, give this Gatte Ki Sabzi a try—you’ll love the taste, the aroma, and the warm feeling it brings.