Samay Baji, a quintessential dish of the Newari people in Nepal, is a culinary masterpiece that encapsulates the spirit of love and happiness during festivals and special occasions. Comprising an array of dishes served with crispy beaten rice, this platter is a symbol of communal joy. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey and explore the intricate details of crafting this festive delight.

Ingredients:

For Khen (fried boiled eggs):

• 1 egg per serving
• 1 tsp. olive, mustard, or sunflower oil
• 1/3 tsp. turmeric powder
• Salt and cumin powder, to taste

For Bhuti (Black-Eyed Peas Curry):

• 1 cup soaked black-eyed peas or tinned black-eyed peas
• 1 tsp. turmeric powder
• 1 tsp. cumin powder
• 1 tsp. red chili powder
• 2-3 tbsp. mustard oil
• Salt to taste

For Saag (Spinach):

• 2 bunches of spinach
• 1 tsp. red chili powder
• 1 tsp. cumin powder
• Salt to taste

For Fried Aloo (Fried Boiled Potatoes):

• 2 boiled potatoes
• 1/2 tsp. cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 tsp. cumin-coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. ginger powder
• 1 tbsp. mustard oil

For Bhatmas (brown or black soybean):

• 1 cup brown or black soybean seeds
• 1 tsp. cumin powder
• 1 tsp. red chili powder
• 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 inch of ginger, sliced
• 2 tbsp. mustard oil
• Salt to taste

Steps:

For Khen (fried boiled eggs):

1. Boil eggs to perfection.
2. Heat oil in a pan and fry boiled eggs until golden, adding turmeric for color.
3. Sprinkle with salt and cumin powder for added flavor.

For Bhuti (Black-Eyed Peas Curry):

1. Soak black-eyed peas overnight and boil.
2. Heat oil in a pan; add boiled black-eyed peas, turmeric powder, cumin powder, salt, and chili powder. Mix well.

For Saag (Spinach):

1. Heat oil, add spinach, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add cumin powder, salt, and chili powder. Mix until well combined.

For Fried Aloo (Fried Boiled Potatoes):

1. Heat oil, fry cumin seeds until dark, and add boiled, cut potatoes.
2. Add turmeric powder, salt, cumin-coriander powder, chili powder, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Mix and cook.

For Bhatmas (brown or black soybean):

1. Heat oil, fry Bhatmas, then mix with cumin powder, chili powder, sliced garlic, sliced ginger, and oil.

Recipe Notes:

• Mustard oil adds an intense flavor to the dish, but any oil can be substituted.
• Samay Baji is traditionally served on a platter to be shared among a group, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
• Include additional elements like Newari pancake (Bara), grilled meat curry (Chicken Choila), and curry of bamboo shoots, black beans, and potato (Chhon Kwa) to enhance the experience.

Samay Baji is not just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate. With its diverse flavors and cultural significance, it brings people together, creating memories and moments of joy. So, gather your loved ones, prepare this exquisite dish, and immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of the Newari people. May each bite be a taste of happiness and tradition!

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