Gujarati Kadhi Recipe: A Traditional Gujarati Delight
Gujarati Kadhi is a comforting and aromatic yogurt-based curry that’s a beloved part of Gujarati cuisine. This recipe features a silky smooth consistency, enhanced by the earthy flavors of gram flour (besan), a hint of sweetness from jaggery, and a perfect balance of spices. It’s traditionally served with rice or khichdi, making for a wholesome meal. This dish strikes the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory, and is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough for any occasion.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yogurt (dahi) | 1 cup |
| Gram flour (besan) | 2 tbsp |
| Hing (asafoetida) | 1/4 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Jaggery (gud), powdered | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cumin seeds (jeera) | 1/4 tsp |
| Mustard seeds (rai) | 1/4 tsp |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 inch |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 tsp |
| Green chilies, chopped | 2 |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | 1 tbsp |
| Curry leaves (kadhi patta) | 5 sprigs, chopped |
| Fresh coriander (hara dhaniya), chopped | 1 tbsp |
Preparation Time:
- 5 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 35 minutes
Servings:
- 4 servings
Cuisine:
- Gujarati Cuisine
Course:
- Main Course
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Kadhi Base:
- Begin by whisking 1 cup of yogurt with 2 cups of water in a mixing bowl to ensure there are no lumps.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, 2 tablespoons of gram flour (besan), 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing), powdered jaggery, and salt to taste.
- Whisk the mixture thoroughly to prevent the formation of lumps.
-
-
Cooking the Kadhi:
- Transfer the yogurt mixture to a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. The kadhi should slightly thicken and become a smooth, creamy consistency.
-
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
- While the kadhi is simmering, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a small frying pan over medium heat.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds (rai) and 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera) to the hot ghee. Allow them to splutter for 15 seconds.
- Add 1-inch cinnamon stick, 5 sprigs of chopped curry leaves, 2 finely chopped green chilies, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their fragrance.
-
Combine the Tempering with Kadhi:
- Pour the prepared tempering into the simmering kadhi. Stir gently and let it cook for another 2 minutes so that the flavors meld together.
-
Final Touches:
- Turn off the heat and garnish the kadhi with freshly chopped coriander (hara dhaniya).
-
Serving:
- Serve the Gujarati Kadhi hot with steamed rice or khichdi. It also pairs wonderfully with roti or paratha for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Tips for Making the Best Gujarati Kadhi:
- Consistency: If the kadhi becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a little more water and adjust to your desired consistency.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of jaggery according to your preference. Some may like it a little sweeter, while others may prefer a more savory version.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices. If you prefer more heat, you can add extra green chilies or even a pinch of red chili powder.
- Flavor Enhancements: Some variations of Gujarati Kadhi also include a pinch of sugar or grated coconut for an extra layer of flavor.
- Tempering Variations: You can experiment with adding other whole spices like cloves or bay leaves for different aromatic notes.
Why You’ll Love Gujarati Kadhi:
Gujarati Kadhi is a delightful dish with a perfect balance of flavors. The combination of tangy yogurt, earthy gram flour, and the sweet undertones of jaggery makes it unique among other kadhis. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly soothing for the stomach. Plus, it pairs beautifully with both rice and khichdi, making it a staple comfort food in many Gujarati households.
This kadhi recipe is a great way to explore traditional Indian flavors with simple ingredients and minimal preparation. Whether you’re looking to try something new or want to recreate a familiar taste from your roots, Gujarati Kadhi is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your dining table.
Enjoy this warm, flavorful Gujarati Kadhi as a main course, and experience a taste of traditional Indian cooking that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
