When winter arrives, Gujarati kitchens come alive with the aroma of Undhiyu - a wholesome, slow-cooked vegetable delicacy packed with seasonal produce and bold spices. Traditionally prepared during festivals like Makar Sankranti and family gatherings, Undhiyu is a true celebration of winter vegetables and flavours.

What Makes Undhiyu Special?

Undhiyu is unique because it combines multiple winter vegetables, fenugreek dumplings (muthiyas), and a coconut–spice masala, all cooked together on a slow flame. The result is a rich, earthy, and comforting dish that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Vegetables:

• 1 Cup surti papdi (flat beans), chopped
• 1 Cup baby potatoes, peeled
• 1 Cup purple yam (kand), cubed
• 1 Cup sweet potatoes, cubed
• 1 Cup raw banana, sliced
• ½ Cup small brinjals, slit
• ½ Cup fresh tuvar dana (pigeon peas)

For Muthiyas:

• 1 Cup fresh methi (fenugreek leaves), finely chopped
• ½ Cup besan (gram flour)
• 2 Tbsp wheat flour
• 1 Tsp ginger-green chilli paste
• 1 Tsp sugar
• Salt to taste
• ½ Tsp turmeric powder
• Oil for shallow frying

For Masala:

• 1 Cup fresh grated coconut
• 2 Tbsp coriander leaves
• 2 Tbsp roasted peanut powder
• 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 Tsp cumin-coriander powder
• 1 Tsp red chilli powder
• 1 Tsp sugar
• Salt to taste
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice

Other:

• 4-5 Tbsp oil
• ½ Tsp asafoetida (hing)
• 1 Tsp carom seeds (ajwain)

Instructions:

• Mix all muthiya ingredients into a soft dough. Shape into small oval dumplings and shallow fry until golden. Keep aside.
• Combine coconut, coriander, peanut powder, sesame seeds, spices, sugar, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well.
• Stuff brinjals and baby potatoes with a masala mixture. Mix the remaining masala with the other vegetables.
• Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add hing and ajwain. Layer the vegetables, cover, and cook on low flame without stirring for 10–12 minutes. Gently mix, add muthiyas, cover, and cook again till all vegetables are tender.
• Garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Undhiyu is traditionally paired with warm puris, rotis or even steamed rice. A side of shrikhhand and some jalebi add sweetness to this hearty winter meal - a perfect way to celebrate Makar Sankranti with family and friends.

A Winter Comfort on Your Plate

Undhiyu is more than a recipe - it’s a winter tradition that brings warmth, nutrition, and togetherness to the table. Make it this season and enjoy a true Gujarati winter delight with your loved ones. 🌿🥔🥥