Leelva Nu Bhaat

A traditional Gujarati rice delicacy made with broad beans (leelva), aromatic spices, and fresh green garlic — simple, flavorful, and comforting.

Ingredients

1. 2 cups rice
2. 250 gms broad bean seeds (leelva)
3. 3 tbsp oil
4. 1 tsp mustard seeds
5. 2 whole red chillies
6. A pinch of asafoetida
7. ½ tbsp ginger paste
8. 2 tbsp green chilli paste
9. 1 sprig green garlic, chopped
10. 2 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped
11. Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice

   • Clean, wash, and soak the rice for about 30 minutes.
   • Drain all the water completely and keep aside.

2. Temper the Spices

   • Heat oil in a kadhai or deep pan.
   • Add mustard seeds, asafoetida, and broken red chillies.
   • Allow them to crackle to release their aroma.

3. Add the Aromatics and Beans

   • Add broad bean seeds (leelva) to the tempering.
   • Mix in the ginger paste and green chilli paste.
   • Stir-fry the mixture for about a minute on medium heat.

4. Add and Cook the Rice

   • Add the drained rice to the pan and stir-fry gently for a few minutes.
   • Pour in 4 cups of boiling water.
   • Add salt to taste and stir well.
   • Lower the flame and simmer until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.

5. Garnish and Serve

   • Fluff the rice lightly with a fork.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and green garlic.
   • Serve hot with yogurt or pickle.

Tip: Soaking the rice beforehand helps achieve a fluffy, non-sticky texture — perfect for this hearty Gujarati rice dish.