Junglee Bater (Quail)

 

Junglee Bater(Quail)

 

My mom used to be a mistress of shortcuts but without compromising on the flavours of the dishes she used to produce. On the contrary her production used to be an enhancement of the original. Many a time we used to visit various jungles due to my father’s official sojourns. Typically the dak bungalow Khansama (Cook) use to prepare dinner or lunch but on some occasions my mom used to take over the kitchen. 

 

In fact I remember when we used to go for these trips there was one basket in the Jonga(Nissan manufactured army vehicle) full of ration to last the trip!! Country chicken were easy to procure and she used to make this dry dish with it. Much later this was a daily affair at home since my nephew’s dinner wouldn’t be complete without it.

 

Bater (Quail) is easily available in Mumbai and I thought of tweaking my Mom’s process to make this with the bird. A Sunday afternoon well spent!!

 

4 whole Quails

200 grams whole shallots

30 whole garlic cloves

10 whole red chillies

1 Tbs crushed black peppercorns 

Salt

Curry leaves

3 potatoes with skin cut into wedges

Ghee (no compromise on quantity since no water will be used)

 

Steam the potatoes until three fourth done and set aside

Heat ghee in a kadai 

Add the shallots and garlic and stir fry for 30 seconds

Add the curry leaves  and once they are blistered add the whole quails

Stir and add chillies, pepper and salt.

Sauté on high for a minute and then cover and cook.

Give it a occasional stir.

Once the protein is cooked add the potatoes

Stir carefully and then cook uncovered for another couple of minutes.

 

Have it with Jeera or plain  Rice or a Paratha or whatever you feel like. Squeeze some lime juice on it if you are inclined.