How to Make Handvo in an Instant Pot: A Time-Saving Method

Handvo, the quintessential Gujarati savory cake, is a labor of love that traditionally involves hours of preparation and cooking. But with the Instant Pot, you can achieve the same authentic flavors in a fraction of the time. In this blog, we’ll guide you through making Handvo in an Instant Pot, ensuring a quick and hassle-free cooking experience while preserving the traditional essence of this dish.

Why Use an Instant Pot for Handvo?

The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, offering consistent results and saving time without compromising on taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this method is perfect for busy schedules or last-minute cravings.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Handvo

For the Batter:

  • 1 cup rice
  • 1/2 cup chana dal
  • 1/2 cup urad dal
  • 1/4 cup toor dal
  • 1/4 cup moong dal
  • 1 cup grated bottle gourd (lauki)
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • Salt to taste

For Tempering:

  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
  • Curry leaves
  • 2 tbsp oil

Step-by-Step Method to Make Handvo in an Instant Pot

1. Prepare the Batter:

  • Soak rice and dals together for 4-5 hours.
  • Grind them into a coarse paste using minimal water.
  • Mix the batter with yogurt and let it ferment overnight or for at least 8 hours.
  • Add grated bottle gourd, green chilies, ginger, turmeric powder, red chili powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

2. Prepare the Instant Pot:

  • Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode.
  • Heat oil in the pot, then add mustard seeds, sesame seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Let them splutter.
  • Pour half of this tempering into the batter and mix well. Reserve the rest for garnish.

3. Cook the Handvo:

  • Grease the inner pot of the Instant Pot with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Pour the batter into the pot, spreading it evenly.
  • Cancel the “Sauté” mode and select the “Pressure Cook” mode. Set the timer for 15 minutes. Use the “High Pressure” setting and close the lid.
  • Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before opening the lid.

4. Crisp the Top Layer (Optional):

  • For a crispy top layer, switch to the “Sauté” mode again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes with the lid open.

5. Serve:

Carefully remove the Handvo from the pot, slice it, and garnish with the reserved tempering. Serve hot with green chutney or ketchup.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Handvo

  1. Prevent Sticking: Grease the inner pot well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Consistent Fermentation: If you’re in a hurry, use a warm spot to speed up fermentation.
  3. Crispier Edges: Use the “Sauté” mode at the end to crisp up the edges and the top layer.

Conclusion

Making Handvo in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for those who love this traditional Gujarati dish but don’t have the time for the conventional cooking method. With this quick and easy recipe, you can enjoy the authentic flavors of Handvo without the hassle. Try it out and let us know your experience in the comments! For more such recipes, visit AllBlogs.