Pyaaz Posto: A Simple Yet Flavorful Bengali Onion and Poppy Seed Dish

20 minutes

912 reads

4.50 from 4 votes

About Pyaaz Posto: A Simple Yet Flavorful Bengali Onion and Poppy Seed Dish

Discover the comforting warmth of Pyaaz Posto, a delightful Bengali recipe where caramelized onions meet the creamy richness of poppy seeds. This simple yet incredibly flavorful dish showcases the versatility of posto (poppy seeds), a staple in Bengali cuisine often paired with potatoes. This version offers a unique twist, highlighting the sweet and savory dance of onions seasoned with traditional spices.
Using just a few pantry staples, this recipe comes together quickly, offering a perfect weeknight meal. The subtle sweetness of the onions perfectly complements the earthy poppy seed paste, creating a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant. Serve this Pyaaz Posto with steamed rice for an authentic Bengali experience.
Beyond its simplicity, this recipe highlights the heart of Bengali home cooking: fresh, high-quality ingredients transformed into a dish brimming with soul-soothing flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make culinary gem!
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Recipe Time & More

Prep5 minutes
Cook15 minutes
Total20 minutes
Calories132 kcal
Serves4
Served AsLunch

Ingredients
 

Aromatics & Spices

Vegetables

  • 4 Onion large, thinly sliced
  • 4-6 Chili adjust to your spice preference, green

Poppy Seed Paste

Oil

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Instructions
 

Preparing the Onions

  • Heat mustard oil in a kadai (wok) over medium heat. Add nigella seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add the sliced onions, salt, sugar, and turmeric powder. Stir well to coat the onions.
  • Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.

Making the Poppy Seed Paste

  • While the onions are cooking, prepare the poppy seed paste. Dry roast the poppy seeds in a pan until fragrant. Add the roasted poppy seeds, green chilies, and a little water to a blender or food processor. Blend until a smooth paste forms. Add more water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

Combining and Finishing

  • Add the poppy seed paste to the cooked onions. Stir well to combine.
  • Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the raw smell of the poppy seeds disappears and the mixture thickens slightly. Add a little water if it becomes too dry.
  • Continue to stir, allowing the excess water to evaporate and the oil to separate from the sides.
  • Serve hot with steamed rice.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Pyaaz Posto

  • For a deeper caramelization, cook the onions over low-medium heat for a longer period.
  • Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer chilies or omit them altogether.
  • If the poppy seed paste is too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to allow excess water to evaporate.
  • For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of ghee (clarified butter) along with the mustard oil.

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4.50 from 4 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 132kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 7.8gSodium: 855mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3g

Priyanjali Joardar
Priyanjali Joardar

Recipe creator, food photographer and stylist

Articles: 36
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4 Comments

4.50 from 4 votes

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