Many are unaware, but Bihar’s Mithila region is home to a wealth of culinary delights and healthful ingredients.
In this blog post, we’re spotlighting a very special dish called Tisi-Sajmain, a delightful curry from Mithila that combines the nutritional powerhouses of flaxseed and bottle gourd.
In Bihar, flaxseed is called ‘tisi,’ also known as ‘alsi’ in Hindi, and bottle gourd is known as ‘sajmain’ in Maithili, or ‘lauki’ in Hindi. Both of these foods carry cultural importance, deeply rooted in the region’s agriculture and culinary traditions.
Flaxseed has become really popular lately because it’s super healthy. It’s been a part of Bihar’s food culture for a long time, used in cooking and even in religious ceremonies. Bottle gourd is also a common ingredient in Bihar’s cuisine, bringing its own nutritional benefits to the table.
Join us as we explore the health benefits of flaxseed and bottle gourd, and learn how to make this delicious Tisi-Sajmain curry. Let’s dive into the flavors of Bihar and discover the goodness of these ingredients together!
Nutritional Benefits of Flaxseed & Bottle Gourd
Both flaxseed and bottle gourd offer a range of nutritional benefits, making them valuable additions to a healthy diet.
Flaxseed is renowned for being one of the richest plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a beneficial omega-3 fatty acid known for its role in heart health, cognitive function, and reducing inflammation.
Additionally, flaxseed is packed with dietary fiber and antioxidant lignans. It also provides a substantial amount of protein and essential minerals like vitamin B1 (thiamine), magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus.
On the other hand, bottle gourd is a low-calorie vegetable with a high water content, making it perfect for promoting digestive health, hydration, and detoxification.
It’s also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium.
Using flaxseed and bottle gourd in your meals can give you lots of nutrients that keep you healthy.
Now, let’s get cooking with an easy recipe that uses both of these amazing ingredients!
Cooking Tisi-Sajmain: A Step-by-Step Guide
Serves: 4-5
Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized bottle gourd (lauki)
- 2 tablespoons flaxseeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 2-3 dried red chilies
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 teaspoons mustard oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Juice of 1 small lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
Preparation
- Thinly dice the bottle gourd.
- Prepare the flaxseed masala:
-
- Heat an iron pan or kadhai.
- Dry roast flaxseeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, dried red chilies, and bay leaf for 5-7 minutes over medium heat until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Let the mixture cool down, then grind it into a coarse powder using a blender.
Cooking Instructions
- Heat mustard oil in a pot or kadhai. Add chopped bottle gourd, salt, and turmeric powder. Mix well, cover, and cook for 7-10 minutes until soft, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Once the bottle gourd is soft, add the flaxseed masala to the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients and cook for a few more minutes.
- Add about a cup of water to make the gravy. Reduce the heat and simmer until the desired consistency is reached.
- Turn off the heat. Add the lemon juice and combine well.
- Tisi-Sajmain is best served hot with steamed rice. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious curry as a wholesome meal!
Note: You can adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Tisi-Sajmain?
Tisi-Sajmain is a traditional Mithila dish from Bihar made with flaxseed (tisi/alsi) and bottle gourd (sajmain/lauki). It is a wholesome curry known for its earthy flavor and rich nutritional benefits.
2. What is the Indian name for flaxseed?
In India, flaxseed is commonly called ‘alsi’ in Hindi and ‘tisi’ in the Mithila region of Bihar. It is also known by regional names in different states.
3. What is bottle gourd called in India?
Bottle gourd is known as ‘lauki’ or ‘ghiya’ in Hindi, and ‘sajmain’ in Maithili. It is a staple vegetable in Indian households and is used in a variety of regional dishes.
4. Is alsi or tisi the same?
Yes, both refer to flaxseed. ‘Alsi’ is the widely used Hindi name, while ‘tisi’ is the Maithili/Bihari name. They are the same ingredient.
5. What is the best way to eat flaxseed?
Flaxseed can be eaten roasted, ground into powder, or added to curries, rotis, smoothies, and salads. Ground flaxseed is easier to digest and allows the body to absorb its nutrients better.
6. What is the best way to serve Tisi-Sajmain?
Tisi-Sajmain is traditionally served hot with steamed rice. It can also be paired with roti or enjoyed as part of a wholesome Indian thali.
7. Is Tisi-Sajmain vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, Tisi-Sajmain is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for people following plant-based or gluten-free diets.
8. Can Tisi-Sajmain be eaten frequently?
Yes, Tisi-Sajmain is light, nutritious, and easy to digest, making it suitable for regular meals. However, moderation is key since flaxseed is high in fiber and should not be consumed in excess.
