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Batar Da'an is a traditional dish from Timor-Leste (East Timor), a flavorful and hearty stew made with corn, pumpkin, and beans. This vegetarian dish is a staple in Timorese cuisine, combining simple, wholesome ingredients that are both nourishing and satisfying. With its vibrant colors and rich taste, Batar Da'an is perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year. Whether you're familiar with Southeast Asian cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe will help you create an authentic Timorese stew in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

1 lb (0.45 kg) pumpkin, peeled and diced

2 cups (320 g) corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 cup (200 g) red kidney beans or black beans, cooked

1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp turmeric powder

1/2 tsp ground coriander

4 cups (950 ml) vegetable broth or water

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices and Pumpkin: Stir in the turmeric powder and ground coriander, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors. Add the diced pumpkin to the pot, stirring to coat the pieces with the aromatic mixture.

Simmer the Stew: Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.

Add Corn and Beans: Once the pumpkin is cooked, add the corn kernels and cooked beans to the pot. Stir well to combine and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Season and Finish: Taste the stew and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the stew is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve: Ladle the Batar Da'an into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with rice or crusty bread.

Serving

Batar Da'an is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, flatbread, or even a simple salad. This stew is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a nutritious lunch.

Batar Da'an is a delicious example of Timorese cuisine, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet pumpkin, tender beans, and crunchy corn makes this stew both comforting and nourishing. With its simple preparation and rich taste, Batar Da'an is a dish that you’ll want to add to your regular recipe rotation.