Bhuna Khichuri

One popular dish that was brought to the UK by Bangladeshi immigrants during the 1950s and 1960s is Bhuna Khichuri. Bhuna Khichuri is a traditional Bangladeshi dish made with rice and lentils that is flavoured with a mixture of spices, herbs, and vegetables. It is a hearty and comforting dish that was often made for special occasions and family gatherings.

Here is a recipe for Bhuna Khichuri:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice

• 1/2 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 inch of ginger, grated

• 1 medium tomato, chopped

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp coriander seeds

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups of water

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice and lentils and set aside.

2. In a large saucepan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.

4. Add the chopped tomato and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

5. Add the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, turmeric powder, cumin powder, garam masala, salt, and pepper and cook for another minute.

6. Add the rice, lentils, and water to the pan and stir well.

7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Cook until the rice and lentils are tender and the water has been absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.

8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Bhuna Khichuri is a flavorful and filling dish that is a staple in Bangladeshi cuisine. It is a simple and comforting dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of vegetables or meat. It remains a popular dish among the Bangladeshi community in the UK and continues to be enjoyed by generations of families.