Ooti

Introduction

Ooti is a soothing Manipuri dish made with yellow peas and flavored with aromatic spices. It’s a comfort food that’s both nutritious and delicious.

1. Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried yellow/white peas, soaked overnight
• 1/2 tsp cooking soda
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp mustard oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 onions, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  

2. Instructions:

1. Cook the soaked peas with cooking soda and salt until soft.
2. In a separate pan, heat mustard oil and add cumin seeds and bay leaf.
3. Add ginger, onions, and green chilies; sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Add chopped tomatoes and turmeric powder; cook until tomatoes are soft.
5. Combine the cooked peas with the spice mixture and simmer for a few minutes.

3. Pro Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use mustard oil for tempering.
• Adjust the consistency by adding water as needed.

4. Serving Suggestions:

Serve Ooti hot with steamed rice or flatbreads.

5. Fun Fact:

Ooti is often prepared during festivals and is a favorite among both children and adults in Manipur.

Source: Archana’s Kitchen