Labra is a classic Bengali mixed vegetable curry prepared during Durga Puja as part of the bhog. Cooked in mustard oil with panch phoran, it blends seasonal vegetables like pumpkin, potato, beans, and brinjal into a mildly spiced curry. Balanced with a touch of sugar, Labra complements khichuri perfectly in the festive meal.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
100 gCabbage (shredded)
1 tbspMustard oil
2 mediumSweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 mediumWhite radish, cut into 1-inch pieces
100 gRed pumpkin (kaddu), cut into 1-inch pieces
15French beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
2Brinjals, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 largePotato, cut into 1-inch pieces
15Broad beans (sem ki phalli), cut into 1-inch pieces
Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until it starts to smoke lightly. Lower the flame, add panch phoran and dry red chillies. Stir for a few seconds until the spices splutter and the red chillies darken. This tempering gives the dish its authentic Bengali aroma.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Add the vegetables
Add all the cut vegetables, potato, pumpkin, radish, brinjal, sweet potato, beans, and cabbage. Stir well to ensure that the ingredients are evenly coated in the tempered oil. Make sure every piece gets a touch of spice and oil, which helps the flavours seep in during slow cooking.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Mix the masalas
Add turmeric powder and ginger paste. Mix thoroughly so that the masala coats all the vegetables evenly. The bright yellow turmeric adds colour, while the ginger brings warmth. Cook on a medium flame for a couple of minutes before covering.
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Step 4: Slow cook the curry
Cover the pan with a lid and let the vegetables cook on a low flame. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The vegetables release their own water, which helps them soften without adding extra liquid. Keep checking until everything is tender but not mushy.
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Step 5: Dry out the curry
Once the vegetables are cooked, increase the flame to medium-high. Stir continuously to evaporate excess moisture. The curry should be semi-dry, with the vegetables holding their shape. This step is important to get the traditional Labra texture.
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Step 6: Finish with flavour
Add slit green chillies, sugar, and salt. Mix well to balance the earthy spices with a hint of sweetness. Cook for two more minutes and remove from the heat. Labra is now ready to be served hot as part of a festive bhog thali.