Vegan Navratan Korma Recipe
Vegan Navratan Korma is a vibrant and flavorful North Indian dish, featuring a delightful combination of vegetables, fruits, dry fruits, and aromatic spices. The dish is enriched with the creaminess of coconut curd and milk, making it a luxurious and satisfying meal. Perfect for special occasions or when hosting guests, this recipe brings together the goodness of tofu, an array of vegetables, and a rich array of nuts and dry fruits, resulting in a sweet and savory dish with complex flavors. The addition of saffron and silver work adds a touch of elegance, making it a great choice for festive gatherings.
Ingredients for Vegan Navratan Korma
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots | 2 (small diced) |
| Green beans | 10 (chopped) |
| Cabbage | 1/2 cup (chopped) |
| Potatoes | 2 (boiled and chopped) |
| Tofu | 1/2 cup (chopped) |
| Onions | 2 (chopped) |
| Green chillies | 6 |
| Ginger garlic paste | 2 tbsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Red chilli powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Cardamom powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Black cardamom | 1 (big) |
| Cloves | 3 (long) |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece |
| Coconut curd | 1 cup |
| Coconut milk | 1/2 cup |
| Mint | As needed (fresh) |
| Saffron | 8 strands |
| Silver work | Optional (for garnish) |
| Pineapple | A few pieces (chopped) |
| Raisins | 2 tbsp |
| Cashews | 6-8 (roasted) |
| Almonds | 1 tbsp (thinly sliced) |
| Pistachios | 1 tbsp (thinly sliced) |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Coconut oil | As needed (for cooking) |
| For Paste | |
| Khus khus | 1 1/2 tbsp |
| Cashews | 10 (soaked) |
| Almonds | 15 (soaked) |
Preparation Time
60 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Instructions for Preparing Vegan Navratan Korma
-
Prepare the Paste:
- Begin by soaking the cashews and almonds in water for about 30 minutes. Once softened, blend them together with the khus khus in a mixer grinder to form a smooth paste. Set aside.
-
Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, cook the carrots, green beans, cabbage, potatoes, and tofu until they are tender. Once done, set the cooked vegetables aside.
-
Prepare the Spice Base:
- In a pan, heat some coconut oil over medium heat. Add the whole spices β cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and black cardamom. Let them sizzle for 15 seconds to release their aromas.
- Add the chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry the mixture for about 2 minutes, then add the green chillies. Continue to cook until the onions soften, then remove the mixture from the pan and allow it to cool.
- Once cooled, transfer the mixture to the mixer grinder and grind it into a smooth paste.
-
Cook the Gravy:
- Return the onion-ginger-garlic paste to the pan. Add the red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir the ingredients well and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
-
Add Dairy Alternatives:
- Pour in the coconut curd and coconut milk, followed by the paste made of almonds, cashews, and khus khus. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
-
Add Vegetables and Tofu:
- Now, add the cooked vegetables and tofu to the pan along with 1 cup of water. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together.
-
Final Seasoning:
- Sprinkle in the garam masala powder, mix thoroughly, and let the korma simmer for another 2 minutes.
-
Prepare the Garnish:
- In a small pan, heat some coconut oil and lightly fry the cashews, raisins, almonds, and pistachios for about 15 seconds until golden and fragrant. Add this garnished mixture to the cooked korma.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the Vegan Navratan Korma to a serving dish. Cover it with a silver foil (optional), and garnish with fresh mint leaves, pineapple pieces, and saffron strands.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Vegan Navratan Korma with hot Lahsuni Daal, a refreshing Kachumber Salad, and soft Phulkas for a complete and satisfying North Indian lunch.
Enjoy this indulgent and aromatic Vegan Navratan Korma with its creamy, spicy gravy and the crunch of roasted nuts and dried fruits. Itβs a delightful treat for special occasions or when you want to add something festive to your meal!
