Deconstructed Sev Tamatar with Bajra Tacos - By Chef Subyendu Roy

Sev Tamatar ki Sabzi is a beloved dish from Kathiawadi cuisine in Gujarat, known for its simplicity and delicious flavor. Traditionally served with Bajra ki Roti, it is a perfect example of creating magical dishes with minimal ingredients available.

Ingredients:

For Sev Tamatar

• Halved Tomatoes - 6 Nos.

• Ghee - 1 tbsp

• Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) - ½ tsp

• Cumin Seeds (Jeera) - ½ tsp

• Finely Chopped Curry Leaves - 1 sprig

• Slit Green Chillies - 2 Nos.

• Finely Chopped Ginger - 1 inch

• Turmeric Powder (Haldi) - 1/2 tsp

• Red Chilli Powder - ½ tsp

• Jaggery - 1 tbsp

• Sev - ½ cup

• Salt - to taste           

For Bajra Tacos

• Bajra Flour - 1 cup

• Whole Wheat Flour - 1/4 cup

• Hot Water - 1 cup (add extra if needed)

• Ajwain Seeds - 1/4 tsp

• Oil - 2 tsps

Method:

For Sev Tamatar

1. Halve the tomatoes and keep all ingredients ready.

2. Place the tomatoes in a pressure cooker with 2 tbsps of water. Cook for 2 whistles, then turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.

3. Once cooled, peel the tomatoes and finely chop them. Set aside.

4. Heat ghee in a saucepan on medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, green chillies, and ginger. Allow them to crackle and sauté for a few seconds.

5. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, jaggery, and salt. Mix well and sauté until combined.

6. Boil the mixture for 3-4 minutes. Add half of the sev and 1/4 cup of water. Bring it to a boil, then turn off the heat.

7. Check the seasoning and adjust salt and spices if needed.

8. Stir in chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot.

For Bajra Tacos

1. In a large bowl, mix bajra flour, whole wheat flour, ajwain seeds, oil, and salt. Gradually add hot water to form a dough.

2. Divide the dough into portions and roll out 4 chapatis. Heat a tawa and semi-cook the chapatis on both sides.

3. Brush the semi-cooked chapatis with oil, fold them in half, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or until crisp.           

For Assembling

1. Place the Sev Tamatar on a serving plate. Arrange the Bajra Tacos beside it.

2. Garnish the Sev Tamatar with extra sev, chopped coriander leaves, and a drizzle of ghee if desired.

3. Use the Bajra Tacos to scoop up the Sev Tamatar for a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.

Tips:

• Ensure the Bajra Tacos are crispy to provide a good contrast to the soft and flavorful Sev Tamatar.

• Adjust the spiciness of the Sev Tamatar by modifying the amount of green chillies and red chilli powder according to your preference.

• This dish can be a great appetizer or main course, depending on the portion size and accompaniments.