Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo Recipe – A Traditional Gujarati Vegetable Stir Fry
A Refreshing and Flavorful Gujarati Delicacy
Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo, also known as Patta Gobi and Gajar Sambharo, is a vibrant and crunchy vegetable stir-fry that hails from the heart of Gujarat, India. This recipe features an intriguing combination of cabbage, carrots, and green bell pepper, lightly stir-fried to maintain their natural crispness and flavor. Unlike typical cooked vegetable dishes, Sambharo retains its vegetables’ freshness and bite, making it a perfect accompaniment to classic Gujarati snacks like Dhokla, Fafda, and Papdi.
Although this dish is traditionally made with cabbage and carrots, it can also be customized with additional ingredients like raw papaya or capsicum, depending on personal preference. The hint of turmeric, a sprinkle of sugar, and the burst of lemon juice adds an unmistakable touch of tangy sweetness to the dish, making it a refreshing side for a variety of meals. This light and healthy vegetable stir-fry is ideal for a quick and easy lunch or as part of a larger Gujarati meal spread.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots (Gajjar), grated | 3 medium-sized carrots |
| Cabbage (Patta Gobi/ Muttaikose), shredded | 3 cups |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum), thinly sliced | 1 medium bell pepper |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
For Seasoning:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Green Chilies, slit lengthwise | 3 pieces |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4-5
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by grating the carrots and shredding the cabbage into thin, bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the green bell pepper (capsicum) and set aside. Slit the green chilies lengthwise and keep them ready for seasoning.
-
Heat the Oil for Seasoning:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. This step will bring out the mustard seeds’ flavor, infusing the oil with a slightly pungent aroma.
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Seasoning the Oil:
- Once the mustard seeds crackle, immediately add 1/4 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing), slit green chilies, and curry leaves to the pan. Sauté for a few seconds, allowing the curry leaves to release their fragrant aroma.
-
Add the Vegetables:
- Add the grated carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green bell pepper to the pan. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and salt to taste. Stir everything together until the vegetables are well combined with the seasoning.
-
Steam the Vegetables:
- Turn the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the vegetables cook in their own steam for 3 to 4 minutes. The goal is to cook the vegetables just enough to soften them slightly while still maintaining their firmness and crunchiness. Avoid overcooking to retain the freshness of the ingredients.
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Finish and Serve:
- After about 3-4 minutes, the vegetables should be cooked but still slightly crunchy. Turn off the heat and drizzle 1 teaspoon of lemon juice over the cooked vegetables. Stir gently to combine the lemon juice with the warm, seasoned vegetables.
-
Serve Your Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo:
- Your Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo is now ready to be served! Pair it with some Palak Ragi & Oats Thepla or Beetroot & Sesame Thepla for a wholesome and fulfilling Gujarati meal. Alternatively, enjoy it alongside your favorite Gujarati snacks like Dhokla, Fafda, or Papdi.
Tips for the Perfect Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo
- Freshness is Key: To ensure the best texture and flavor, use fresh vegetables. The cabbage should be crisp, and the carrots should be firm for the perfect crunch.
- Customization: You can add raw papaya or additional capsicum for more variation. Experiment with the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies according to your spice preference. You can make it milder by reducing the number of chilies or making it spicier with an extra chili or two.
- Storage: Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays good for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~55 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~10g |
| Protein | ~1g |
| Fat | ~2g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sugars | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~150mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.)
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo
This Gujarati-style vegetable stir fry is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch with its vibrant flavors and textures. It’s a perfect side dish that complements the richness of Indian snacks and meals, making it a staple in many Gujarati households. The light stir-frying technique preserves the natural crunchiness of the vegetables, and the subtle yet flavorful seasoning of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies elevates the dish to new heights.
Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch or hosting a traditional Gujarati meal, Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo will be a hit with its simplicity and fresh flavors. It’s a dish that brings joy to the table, making it an ideal addition to any vegetarian spread.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Dhokla – Steamed Savory Snack: A fluffy and savory Gujarati snack that pairs wonderfully with sambharo.
- Fafda – Crunchy Gram Flour Snack: A crispy snack that is often served alongside sambharo in Gujarat.
- Palak Ragi & Oats Thepla: A healthy Gujarati flatbread made with spinach, ragi, and oats, perfect to enjoy with sambharo.
Explore more delightful Gujarati recipes and elevate your culinary skills with these flavorful, easy-to-make dishes!
With its delicious crunch and vibrant flavors, Cabbage and Carrot Sambharo makes an ideal vegetarian side dish for your next meal. Enjoy this simple yet nourishing recipe that’s rich in color, texture, and health benefits!
