Sabudana Khichdi /Sago Pilaf...when only starch can save you!!

Sabudana Khichdi /Sago Pilaf…for those days when nothing else but starch would do…the comparatively less oil microwave version 

Sabudana Khichdi /Sago Pilaf (microwave version)

Ingredients:

• Sabudana/Sago, medium size pearls, 1 cup
• Potatoes, washed, peeled and cut into small cubes, 1 cup
• Skinless Roasted Peanuts, ½ cup (3/4 cup if you love love love peanuts!! Or if you consider them your protein sub for the day)
• Oil, 2 tbsp
• Cumin seeds, 1 tsp
• Green Chilies, finely chopped, 4-5 (seeds removed if you want)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh Coriander leaves, chopped, a handful
• Sugar, ½ tsp (optional)
• Lime juice, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

Wash sago thoroughly in a sieve. 

Let the water drain and then let it stand covered for around 4-5 hours in a wide bottom bowl with not more than 3-4 tbsp of water. (if you need to leave it overnight, drain the water completely)

Fluff up and separate the lumps, if any in the sago with a fork – it should be swelled up and translucent with each pearl separated.

Coarsely pound the peanuts in a mortar and pestle or pulse in the food processor. Need to have three distinct textures – powder, small pieces and some remain whole. The powder will keep sago from sticking and the bigger pieces for texture.

Mix the salt, sugar (if using) and peanuts with the sago in a microwaveable bowl.

Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. When they start spluttering add in the potatoes and half of the green chilies. 

Sauté till potatoes become crisp and golden. Mix in the potatoes mix with the sago.

Put the bowl in the microwave and cook on full power for 6-8 minutes. Mix and toss well every two minutes.

Add in the balance green chilies and coriander leaves. Serve hot!!  (and don't limit it to only breakfast or one of those 'fasting' days) 

Notes:

• Another option is to add in some grated ginger and/or  curry leaves when sautéing the potatoes. I don’t like grated coconut in this one so not even giving that as option!!

• Every brand/packet of sago behaves differently. Soak and test a small quantity to avoid a soggy mess.