One thing I love about winters in Mumbai is the colourful fresh fruits and vegetables that are available in the market. The seasonal fruits and vegetables available at this time in the local markets are my personal favourites. One such favourite is Harbhare or Fresh Bengal Gram.
When I was a kid, mom would get these bunches of green plants and we would sit with them. I would pluck each pod from the plant and she would clean it to get the fresh green gram. Few of us would eat just like that while talking about random topics while the rest either be roasted or sauteed. We still do the same whenever these ole harbhare come into the market during winter.
Appearance:
Comes in green pods. It’s green and at times yellow in shade.
Availability:
Easily available in the local markets during winter (mainly From late December to early February).
Taste:
The green Bengal gram has a distinct refreshing taste. Choose the right type ( the sweeter variety) and you would finish it just like that.
Culinary Usage:
- Raw with a dash of lime and salt
- Roasted, steamed or sauted
- Sprouted
- Hummus
- Pastes
- Soups
The leaves of the plants are also used to make gravy or dry vegetables which are served with Bhakri.
Nutritional Benefits:
Ole harbhare is high in fibre and a good source of protein. It’s a great source of folate and vitamin A & C and many other nutrients.
