Beetroot palya / Beetroot Stir-fry

Beetroot palya / stir fry is a perfect combination with our own Akki rotti, or even Chapatis. Beetroots are very rich in fiber and antioxidants. The bright and rich color of the beets, it's sweet taste tempts us to have more and more. It's detoxifying quality is perfect for those looking to cleanse their systems.

 We get the freshest produce of beetroots, almost every week, in our nearby Farmer's market. Along with the bulbs of the beet, I use it's leaves too in my recipes.  My kids, who normally make a fuss when it comes to eating their veggies, will be more than happy to have this palya. Reason, it's sweet taste. The recipe i am sharing here today is a very basic and simple one. We follow the same procedure for many of our Stir- fry recipes.  So let's take a look at the method of preparing beetroot palya/ stir-fry.

Ingredients :

• Beetroot - 2 cups, chopped
• Oil - 2 tsps
• Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
• Cumin seeds - 1/2 tsp
• Red chillies - 2 , broken
• Curry leaves - few
• Channa dal - 1 tsp
• Onion - 1 medium, chopped finely
• Salt - 1tsp/ as per taste
• Coriander leaves - 1 tbsp,  chopped finely
• Lemon juice - 1/2 tsp

Preparing Beetroot Palya:

• Peel the beetroots, wash and chop into small pieces ( not very fine).
  
• In a vessel, heat the oil. Once heated, add mustard seeds. Then add in the cumin seeds, channa dal,  red chillies and  curry leaves. Fry well for a minute.
  
• Add in the chopped Onions and fry until translucent. 
  
• Add the chopped beetroot and mix well. After a minute, add the salt. Fry for a minute, then it starts leaving little water. Close the lid and let cook in low flame. Stir in between so that all the beetroot pieces cook evenly. It takes around 15 minutes to cook. Alternatively, beetroot can be cooked in pressure  cooker until we hear a whistle, then add it directly to the seasoning.
  
• Once the beetroot is cooked, add in the chopped coriander leaves and lemon juice and give it a good mix. 
  
• Beetroot palya is ready to be served and it goes perfect with Akki rotti , chapatis and also as a side dish with our regular rice and sambar dishes.