Achari Aloo Parwal Sabzi Recipe (Pointed Gourd and Potato Stir-Fry in Pickle Spices)
A mouthwatering North Indian dish, Achari Aloo Parwal Sabzi combines the unique flavor of pointed gourd (parwal) with potatoes in a spicy, tangy pickle-inspired seasoning. This stir-fry offers a medley of aromatic spices and the richness of mustard oil, making it an ideal choice for a comforting lunch or dinner. Served hot with phulkas, puris, or dal, this dish will bring a burst of flavors to your meal table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pointed Gourd (Parval) | 400 grams, sliced lengthwise |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 3 medium-sized, sliced lengthwise |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1, finely sliced |
| Mustard Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Kalonji (Onion Nigella Seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander Seeds (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3, broken into halves |
Preparation Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 50 minutes |
Serving
| Servings | Cuisine | Course | Diet |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | North Indian | Lunch | Vegetarian |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Mix:
- Begin by dry-roasting the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, kalonji, methi seeds, and dry red chillies in a pan on medium heat.
- Once roasted lightly and aromatic, transfer them into a grinder and pulse to create a coarse powder. Set the spice mix aside for later use.
-
-
Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat mustard oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat until it becomes smoky. Reduce the heat to low.
- Add the kalonji (onion nigella seeds) to the hot oil, allowing them to crackle.
- Next, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it turns light golden brown. Ensure not to burn it for the best flavor.
-
Stir-Fry the Aloo and Parwal:
- Add the sliced potatoes, pointed gourd (parwal), and sliced tomatoes to the cooker. Stir them well on high heat for about 4-5 minutes to ensure that the vegetables start to soften and take on some color.
-
Spice It Up:
- Add the turmeric powder (haldi), ground spice mix, and amchur powder. Stir everything together to coat the vegetables in the spices. The fragrance of the spices will fill the air at this stage!
-
Pressure Cook:
- Pour just enough water into the cooker to cook the vegetables through without turning it into a watery gravy. Stir gently and then place the lid on the cooker. Cook for about 2 whistles, then turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
-
Finishing Touch:
- Once the pressure has fully released, open the cooker and add salt to taste. Stir the vegetables gently and simmer the mixture for another few minutes to allow any excess water to evaporate, leaving behind a thick, flavorful coating on the vegetables.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the Achari Aloo Parwal Sabzi to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve it hot alongside phulkas, Matar ki Puri, and Dal Banjara for a wholesome and hearty meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
The Achari Aloo Parwal Sabzi offers a well-balanced blend of nutrients from the potatoes, pointed gourd, and a medley of spices. The use of mustard oil brings a distinctive flavor, while the pickling spices add tang and depth. With low calories and a high fiber content, it’s an excellent choice for a healthy and satisfying vegetarian dish.
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Protein: ~3g
- Fat: ~7g
- Fiber: ~5g
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of dry red chillies or skip them entirely.
- Make it richer: Add a tablespoon of ghee or clarified butter after the cooking process for an enhanced richness.
- Add more vegetables: For variation, try adding carrots or bell peppers to the mix for added color and nutrition.
This Achari Aloo Parwal Sabzi recipe is a delightful, tangy, and flavorful dish perfect for anyone looking to try something new with common ingredients. Enjoy it as part of a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress your guests and family alike!
