Batar Daan
Squash, Corn, and Bean Stew
A hearty and nutritious vegetarian stew, Batar Daan is a staple in Timor-Leste, made with a comforting blend of pumpkin (or squash), corn, and mung beans. It's a versatile dish, often served as a main course with rice or as a substantial side dish, reflecting the agricultural bounty of the region.
🧂 Ingredients
- 0.75 cup Mung beans(dried, soaked overnight)
- 2 lb Pumpkin or butternut squash(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 cup Corn kernels(fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium Onion(finely diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 4.5 cups Vegetable broth or water
- 3 tbsp Coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Peanuts(optional, for added texture)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain the soaked mung beans. In a large stockpot, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 30-45 seconds.
- 2
Add the pumpkin chunks to the pot and stir for about a minute. Add the drained mung beans, corn kernels, salt, and pepper. If using peanuts, add them now. Stir to combine.
- 3
Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
- 4
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, with steamed rice on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the mung beans overnight is crucial for reducing cooking time and improving digestibility.
- ✓This dish can be made more substantial by adding other vegetables like spinach or moringa leaves in the last few minutes of cooking.
- ✓Batar Daan is often described as tasting even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes include a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking for added richness.
- For a non-vegetarian version, small pieces of chicken or fish can be added.