Kwati (Sprouted 9 Beans soup)

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Kwati is a traditional Newari dish, known for its unique combination of nine different sprouted beans. These beans include red kidney beans, black-eyed peas, black gram, chickpeas, cowpeas, field beans, green beans, mung beans, soybeans, and white beans. The soup made from these sprouted beans is a popular delicacy, especially during the festival of Guni Punhi, which occurs on the full moon day of Gunlā, the tenth month in the Nepal Era lunar calendar. Kwāti is also referred to as "gedagudi"  in the Mithila region of Nepal, highlighting its significance in the broader cultural context of Nepal. This soup is not only consumed for its rich taste but also for its health benefits, especially for its high protein content due to the diverse range of beans used.

The Guni Punhi festival, during which Kwāti is traditionally consumed, also coincides with Shravan Poornima in the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which is celebrated as Janāi Purnimā (Raksha Bandhan) in the month of August. This festival has deep cultural and spiritual significance, and Kwāti is an essential part of the celebration, often enjoyed as a ceremonial dish.


To prepare Kwāti, the nine types of beans are soaked in water for three to four days until they sprout. This sprouting process is crucial for enhancing the nutritional value of the beans. After sprouting, the beans are boiled together with a blend of spices, creating a hearty and flavorful soup. Ajwain (carom) seeds are typically tempered in oil and added as a special seasoning, giving the soup a unique, aromatic flavor. 

Kwāti is appreciated not just for its nutritional benefits but also for its symbolic importance in the Newari and Mithila cultures. It is considered a food that nourishes both the body and the spirit, making it a cherished dish during important festivals and occasions.

 

I’m a huge fan of Kwāti, it’s such a comforting, hearty dish! My favorite way to enjoy it is by tossing in some fresh/frozen buff momo into the leftover soup and letting it cook for just one whistle. The rich, flavorful broth and the tender momo make the perfect combo, especially on a chilly day. Or, you can make it your own by adding your choice of protein and carbs. It’s honestly the best way to enjoy it!




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