Embark on a culinary adventure through the Himalayan region with our Thakali Thali recipe. Thakali cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors, is a celebration of diverse ingredients and authentic techniques. Join us in crafting a Thakali Thali feast that encapsulates the essence of this rich and culturally significant Nepalese culinary tradition.

Ingredients:

1 lb (0.45 kg) Chicken, diced

1 cup (200g) Buckwheat Flour

1 cup (200g) Finger Millet Flour

2 cups (400g) Basmati Rice

1 cup (200g) Black Lentils, soaked

1 cup (200g) Mustard Greens, chopped

1 cup (200g) Bamboo Shoots, sliced

1 cup (200g) Potato, diced

4 Tomatoes, diced

4 cloves Garlic, minced

1 tsp Ginger, grated

2 tsp Turmeric Powder

2 tsp Cumin Powder

2 tsp Coriander Powder

1 tsp Mustard Seeds

4 tbsp Ghee or Vegetable Oil

Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken Curry:

In a pot, heat ghee or vegetable oil. Add mustard seeds until they pop. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant. Add diced chicken and cook until browned. Stir in turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and pepper. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they form a thick gravy.

Cook the Buckwheat Pancakes (Dhido):

Mix buckwheat and finger millet flour with water to form a smooth, thick batter. Cook small portions on a hot griddle, creating thin pancakes (Dhido).

Prepare the Accompaniments:

Boil basmati rice, cook soaked black lentils, and steam diced potatoes. Sauté mustard greens and bamboo shoots in ghee or vegetable oil.

Serving:

Arrange the Thakali Thali by placing the chicken curry, buckwheat pancakes, rice, lentils, sautéed vegetables, and steamed potatoes on a traditional platter. Serve hot and savor the symphony of flavors.

Thakali Thali is a culinary journey through the diverse tastes of the Himalayan region, showcasing the richness of Thakali cuisine in a single, delightful feast.