Rajasthani Pyaaz Ki Kadhi Recipe
Traditional and Flavorful Rajasthani Onion Yogurt Curry
This classic Rajasthani dish, Rajasthani Pyaaz Ki Kadhi, is a delicious and tangy curry made with yogurt, gram flour (besan), and the vibrant flavors of sautéed onions and aromatic spices. This simple yet rich curry is a beloved side dish in Rajasthan, often served with corn flatbread (makki ki roti) and mustard greens (sarson ka saag) for a truly authentic experience. It’s perfect for any occasion and pairs beautifully with steamed rice and a fresh cucumber salad. Read on to discover how you can recreate this comforting dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yogurt (whisked well) | 1 cup |
| Gram flour (besan) | 2 tbsp |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Water | 1 cup (adjust as needed) |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 large |
| Fresh ginger (finely chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds (rai) | 1 tsp |
| Fenugreek seeds (methi) | ½ tsp |
| Asafoetida (hing) | A pinch |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds (jeera) | 1 tsp |
| Coriander seeds (dhaniya) | 1 tsp |
| Dried red chili | 1 whole |
| Curry leaves (kadhi patta) | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Rajasthani
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Kadhi Base:
- In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, gram flour (besan), turmeric powder, red chili powder, and water. Mix everything well to ensure there are no lumps, and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
-
Sauté the Onions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a kadhai or deep pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds (rai) and fenugreek seeds (methi). Allow them to splutter.
- Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing), then toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they turn soft and slightly golden. Stir in the ginger and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
-
Cook the Kadhi Mixture:
- Once the onions are soft, pour in the yogurt-besan mixture. Add more water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
- Bring the kadhi to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan.
-
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
- In a small tempering pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add cumin seeds (jeera) and coriander seeds (dhaniya). Sauté for about 15 seconds until the seeds release their aroma.
- Add the dried red chili and curry leaves to the pan, and let them fry for 10 seconds before turning off the heat.
-
Add the Tempering to the Kadhi:
- Pour the hot tempering (tadka) over the cooked kadhi. Stir gently to combine, and let it rest for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
-
Serve:
- Serve the hot Rajasthani Pyaaz Ki Kadhi with warm makki ki roti and sarson ka saag for an authentic Rajasthani meal. Alternatively, it can also be enjoyed with steamed rice or a refreshing kachumber salad.
Tips for the Best Rajasthani Pyaaz Ki Kadhi:
- Consistency: Adjust the amount of water according to how thick or thin you like your kadhi. Traditionally, Rajasthani kadhi is a little thicker.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kadhi, feel free to increase the quantity of red chili powder or add a chopped green chili to the onion sauté.
- Serving Suggestions: This kadhi pairs wonderfully with any Indian bread like chapati, paratha, or roti, or you can enjoy it with a bowl of plain basmati rice for a comforting meal.
- Aromatic Tadka: The tempering at the end adds a beautiful fragrance and depth to the kadhi, so don’t skip this step! You can also experiment with adding a few curry leaves to the kadhi mixture itself for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Rajasthani Kadhi:
- Vibrant and Tangy: The yogurt gives this kadhi its characteristic tangy taste, while the tempering of cumin and coriander seeds enhances its aroma, making each bite a flavorful experience.
- Rich in Protein: Made with yogurt and gram flour, this kadhi is a great source of protein, making it perfect for vegetarians.
- Easy and Quick: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes—ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Rajasthani Pyaaz Ki Kadhi is an exceptional dish that embodies the essence of Rajasthani cuisine—simple yet full of flavor. The combination of spices, yogurt, and onions makes it an unforgettable side dish to any meal. Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite Indian bread or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
