9 Protein-Packed Vegetarian Meals That Won't Break the Bank

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Spiced lentil cake, or Handvo, is a delicious, savory cake inspired by traditional Gujarati cuisine, made with a mix of rice and lentils, and packed with vegetables like bottle gourd, carrots, and fenugreek leaves. Don’t have these ingredients on hand? Feel free to substitute these vegetables for ones you already have on hand to keep this flavorful meal ultra-affordable! We’ve included some suggestions, too! 

Ingredients(for 6-8 servings):

For the Handvo:

• 1 cup rice, rinsed and soaked for 4 hours
• 1 cup mixed lentils, soaked for 4 hours
• 1/2 cup grated bottle gourd (or zucchini)
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped fenugreek leaves (or spinach)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1/2 tsp baking soda

For the Mint Chutney:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp water (adjust as needed)

Instructions:

1. Drain the soaked rice and lentils. Blend them together with a little water to form a coarse batter.
2. In a large bowl, mix the batter with grated bottle gourd, carrots, fenugreek leaves, chopped onion, ginger, green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir in the baking soda just before cooking.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch round baking pan.
4. In a small pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and sesame seeds. When they start to splutter, pour the tempering into the batter and mix well.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle some additional sesame seeds on top if desired.
6. Bake for 30-35 min. or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the Handvo cool slightly before cutting it into 6-8 triangles.
8. In a blender, combine mint leaves, cilantro, green chili, lemon juice, salt, and water. Blend until smooth, adjusting the water as needed for consistency.
9. Serve the Handvo warm with a side of mint chutney for dipping. Enjoy!