Pahadi Gahat

Pahadi Gahat: A Traditional Delicacy From the Himalayas

Gahat, also known as  Kulth or Kulthi , is a traditional delicacy from the hilly regions of the Himalayas. This dish is famous across the region for its unique taste and nutritional value. It is a great source of proteins for vegetarians and also contains minerals and vitamins essential for the body’s functioning.

Gahat is made from locally grown and processed legumes. This dish is prepared either as a soup or as a snack and is considered a delicacy in the region. It can be served with rice and vegetables or can be consumed as a standalone dish.

The distinct taste of Gahat can be attributed to the traditionally followed methods and special spices used in preparing it. The dish is unique and celebrated throughout the Himalayas, primarily due to its traditional touch and health benefits.

History of Gahat

There is no concrete evidence to prove the exact origin, however, some legends date the recipe back to the ancient times in the Himalayan region when the tribes wanted to create a meal that provided the needed energy for their daily activities.

Since Gahat is known to be an energy-rich dish and is quite popular in the region, it is believed that the name of the dish has also been derived from the nearby hilly regions of the Himalayas. In the local dialect, “Ga-hat” literally means ‘the one living in the hills’.

The dish was a staple for the people living in the hilly regions and was appreciated for its nutritional properties. It was also quite inexpensive and was available in abundance in these regions.

Ingredients for Gahat

The main ingredient used in the preparation of Gahat is dry legumes. It is usually prepared with green moong, black-eyed beans or kidney beans. These legumes are available in the markets of the Himalayan region all year around.

Other ingredients used in the recipe of Gahat include onion, cumin, turmeric, Himalayan red chili, ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, ghee, and clarified butter. Salt and pepper is also added to enhance the flavor.

Preparation of Gahat

The preparation of Gahat begins with the soaking and boiling of the legumes for around 20 minutes. Once the legumes are soft, they are drained and set aside.

The next step is the tempering of the spices. This is done by heating the clarified butter in a cooking vessel. Once the butter is melted, the cumin, turmeric, himalayan red chili, ginger-garlic paste, and the chopped onion should be added and cooked until the onion becomes soft.

The cooked ingredients are then blended in a blender to bring out the flavors. The pureed mixture is then added to the boiled legumes. The pot should then be placed over a low flame and cooked for 15-20 minutes.

The last step is to add the diced tomatoes, pepper, and salt. The contents should then be simmered for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to mix. The Gahat is then ready to be served.

Benefits of Gahat

Gahat is a much-prefered dish in the Himalayan region and is also quite healthy.

One of the primary health benefits of consuming Gahat is that it is a rich source of protein. This dish is a great option for people who are not overly fond of non-vegetarian food as it provides the needed protein.

It is also a great source of carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fibre. The presence of turneric, ginger-garlic paste, and cumin add to the nutritional value of the dish. Additionally, the combination of vegetables used in Gahat make it quite nutrient-rich.

Gahat is also known for its low cholesterol content, which makes it a healthier choice for those who have cholesterol-related problems.

Conclusion

Gahat is a unique traditional delicacy from the hilly regions of the Himalayas. It is an energy-rich dish that is made from locally grown and processed legumes, combined with various spices. The unique flavor and nutritional value of the dish make it much-preferred in the region and are also healthy for consumption. Therefore, it can be said that Gahat is truly a traditional delight of the Himalayas.