Banarasi Gobhi Ki Sabzi Recipe (Cauliflower Cooked with Nigella)
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Uttar Pradesh (India)
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Banarasi Gobhi Ki Sabzi, a flavorful cauliflower dish infused with an aromatic blend of spices and cooked with the distinct flavor of Nigella seeds (Kalonji), is a delightful vegetarian side dish that hails from the heart of Uttar Pradesh, India. This dish is a wonderful combination of crunchy cauliflower and the complex, earthy flavors of cumin, fenugreek, and fennel seeds, making it an aromatic delight for your taste buds. Let’s dive into making this simple yet delicious recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (Gobi), cut into small florets | 500 grams |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Kalonji (Onion Nigella Seeds) | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, finely chopped (for garnish) | 3 sprigs |
| Mustard Oil | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 5 cloves |
| Ginger, finely chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 pieces |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cauliflower:
Begin by cutting the cauliflower into small florets. Place them in a bowl of warm water mixed with salt and turmeric powder. This step is important as it helps cleanse the florets and removes any impurities. -
Make the Masala Paste:
In a mixer grinder, add garlic, ginger, dry red chillies, cumin seeds, and a pinch of turmeric. Grind the mixture into a coarse paste and set it aside. -
Cooking the Spices:
Heat mustard oil in a large, preheated pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, methi seeds (fenugreek), fennel seeds (saunf), and kalonji (onion nigella seeds). Let them sizzle for a few seconds, releasing their aromatic flavors. -
Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they turn light brownish and slightly caramelized. This process enhances the flavor and adds depth to the dish. -
Add the Masala Paste:
Next, add the ground masala paste, black pepper powder, and the remaining turmeric powder. Sauté the mixture until the oil starts to separate, and the flavors meld together. -
Cook the Cauliflower:
Rinse the cauliflower florets under running water, drain them well, and add them to the pan. Mix everything together, ensuring the cauliflower is well-coated with the masala. Season the dish with salt to taste. -
Simmer and Stir:
Let the cauliflower cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally. The key here is to cook the cauliflower well, allowing it to retain its crunchy texture while absorbing the flavors of the spices. Continue cooking until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy, which should take about 10-15 minutes. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the cauliflower is cooked, switch off the heat. Garnish the Banarasi Gobhi Ki Sabzi with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Banarasi Gobhi Ki Sabzi pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, enhancing any meal with its vibrant flavors. For a wholesome, comforting meal, serve it with Navrang Dal (Spicy Mixed Lentils), Phulkas (Indian flatbread), and Moong Sprouts Usal (Indian Salad Chaat). This combination makes for an easy yet flavorful weeknight dinner that is sure to satisfy the entire family.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Potassium | 250mg |
Tips for the Best Banarasi Gobhi Ki Sabzi:
- Mustard Oil: The use of mustard oil adds an authentic flavor that is integral to this dish. If mustard oil is unavailable, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or ghee, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- Crunchy Cauliflower: For the perfect balance of tenderness and crunch, ensure the cauliflower is not overcooked. Stir it occasionally to avoid burning the spices and ensure even cooking.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the number of dry red chillies to control the spiciness of the dish. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chillies before grinding.
Banarasi Gobhi Ki Sabzi is a beautiful example of Uttar Pradesh’s rich culinary traditions, offering a delightful side dish that is both simple to make and full of flavor. With the earthy taste of the spices and the crunch of the cauliflower, this dish will be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy!
