Question

Can you make complete thali meals using only 7 ingredients? Discover the art of simple, minimalist cooking for a balanced meal.

Answer 1

Yes, you can create a simple yet satisfying thali meal with just 7 ingredients by focusing on versatile staples and smart flavor combinations. A basic thali can include rice, dal, a simple vegetable dish, yogurt, and a pickle or chutney.

Detailed Explanation:

Creating a complete thali with only 7 ingredients requires careful planning and ingredient selection. Here's a breakdown of how you can achieve this:

1. Rice: A staple carbohydrate source. Use any variety you prefer.
2. Lentils (Dal): Provides protein and fiber. Moong dal or masoor dal cook quickly and require minimal ingredients.
3. Onion: Forms the base for many Indian dishes and adds flavor.
4. Tomato: Adds acidity and sweetness to the dal and vegetable dish.
5. Spinach: A nutritious and quick-cooking vegetable. It can be used to make a simple saag or stir-fry.
6. Yogurt (Dahi): Offers a cooling element and aids digestion. Plain yogurt is best.
7. Spices (Choose one or a blend): Cumin, turmeric, chili powder, or garam masala can add depth and complexity to your dishes.

With these ingredients, you can prepare:

• Rice: Cooked plain.
• Dal: Sauté onions and tomatoes with your chosen spice, then add lentils and water. Cook until the lentils are soft.
• Spinach Sabzi: Sauté onions with your chosen spice, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
• Yogurt: Served plain or with a pinch of salt.

Pro Tip:

To maximize flavor with limited ingredients, bloom your spices in hot oil or ghee before adding other ingredients. This releases their essential oils and enhances their aroma and taste.