Gundi
Lunch • India
How to Make Gundi (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Gundi is a traditional Gujarati vegetarian delicacy, often enjoyed as a light lunch or snack. Originating from the heart of Gujarat, Gundi is a steamed savory dumpling made with besan (chickpea flour) and an aromatic blend of spices. The soft, fluffy texture of Gundi, combined with the subtle heat from green chillies and the freshness of coriander (dhaniya), makes it a favorite among health-conscious food lovers. Prepared without deep frying, Gundi is naturally low in fat and is perfect for those who seek wholesome, nutritious meals without compromising on authentic Indian flavors. Traditionally, Gundi is steamed on special occasions and during festivals like Navratri, when light, sattvik (pure) foods are preferred. Its simplicity and easy preparation make it suitable for everyday lunches, especially in Gujarati households. Gundi stands out for its unique combination of earthy besan, nutty peanuts (moongphali), and the gentle tempering of mustard seeds (rai), which infuses the dumplings with unmistakable Indian character. Whether served with a tangy chutney or a bowl of low-fat curd, Gundi offers a delightful taste of Gujarat's vibrant culinary heritage.
Ingredients(for 4-5 medium Gundi dumplings)
- 1 cup Besan (chickpea flour) (Use fresh besan for best results)
- 1/2 cup Fresh curd (dahi) (Low-fat)
- 1 Green chilli (Finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Ginger (Finely grated (adrak))
- 6-8 Curry leaves (Kadi patta)
- 2 tbsp Coriander leaves (Finely chopped (dhaniya))
- 2 tbsp Peanuts (Roasted & crushed (moongphali))
- 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds (Rai for tempering)
- 1 tsp Sesame seeds (Til, optional) - optional
- 2 tsp Oil (Preferably cold-pressed)
- 1/2 tsp Eno fruit salt (For fluffiness)
- to taste Salt
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (Haldi)
Instructions
- 1
In a mixing bowl, combine besan, curd, salt, turmeric powder, green chilli, ginger, coriander leaves, and crushed peanuts. Add little water if needed to make a thick, lump-free batter.
5 minutes
Use a whisk for a smooth batter; do not overmix.
- 2
Add Eno fruit salt to the batter and mix gently. The batter will become light and airy.
1 minute
Mix Eno just before steaming to retain fluffiness.
- 3
Grease a steamer plate or small steel bowls with a few drops of oil. Drop spoonfuls of batter to make small dumplings.
3 minutes
Do not overcrowd the plate; leave space for expansion.
- 4
Steam the Gundi in a steamer or pressure cooker (without whistle) for 12-15 minutes until they are cooked through and firm.
15 minutes
Insert a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Gundi recipe is health-conscious because it uses besan as a base, which is gluten-free, protein-rich, and low in glycemic index. Steaming instead of frying retains nutrients and minimizes oil content, making it suitable for weight management. Using low-fat curd and minimal cold-pressed oil further reduces calorie and fat intake, while the addition of nuts and spices boosts both flavor and nutritional value. It’s a wholesome, filling lunch option for the health-focused Indian diet.
Gundi is made with besan, which is high in protein and dietary fiber, supporting muscle repair and digestion. The inclusion of fresh curd adds probiotics and calcium, while peanuts provide healthy fats and additional protein. Coriander and curry leaves supply antioxidants and vitamins A and C. Since Gundi is steamed and not fried, it is lower in saturated fats, making it ideal for those seeking heart-healthy Indian recipes. The use of minimal oil and whole ingredients ensures a balanced macro profile with essential micronutrients.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly ground besan for a more aromatic and flavorful Gundi.
- 💡Tip 2: Add Eno fruit salt right before steaming to maintain fluffiness.
- 💡Tip 3: You can add grated vegetables like carrot or lauki for extra nutrition.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Gundi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Re-steam or microwave for 1 minute before serving to restore softness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 120.0 kcal |
