Bengali Phool Gobhir Paturi – A Flavorful Cauliflower and Potato Delight
Serves: 4 | Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
This authentic Bengali dish, Phool Gobhir Paturi, is a perfect blend of flavors that beautifully marries the simplicity of cauliflower and potatoes with aromatic spices. Known for its versatility, it is an ideal addition to your lunch or dinner menu, especially when paired with Cholar Dal and Bengali Lucchi. Easy to prepare and immensely flavorful, this vegetarian recipe will take your taste buds on a delightful journey of traditional Bengali cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potato | 1 cup (chopped) |
| Cauliflower (Gobhi) | 2 cups (chopped) |
| Black Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
| Poppy Seeds (Khas Khas) | 3 tablespoons |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chilies | 4 (adjust to taste) |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by washing and chopping the potatoes and cauliflower into small pieces.
-
Cook the Cauliflower:
- In a saucepan, add enough water to submerge the chopped cauliflower. Bring the water to a boil and add the cauliflower.
- Cook the cauliflower until it becomes soft, then drain the water and set the cauliflower aside.
-
Prepare the Spices:
- Heat oil in a kadhai (pan) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the black cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds, releasing their aroma.
-
Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped potatoes, cauliflower, turmeric powder, and salt into the kadhai.
- Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Cover the pan and cook the vegetables on low heat until they become tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
-
Prepare the Poppy Seed Paste:
- In a separate bowl, mix poppy seeds with a cup of water. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, drain the water and transfer the poppy seeds to a mixer grinder. Add the green chilies and grind the mixture into a smooth paste.
-
Finish the Dish:
- Add the poppy seed and green chili paste into the kadhai with the vegetables. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
- Let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, turn off the heat and your Bengali Phool Gobhir Paturi is ready to serve.
- For the authentic Bengali experience, serve this dish with Cholar Dal (Bengali-style chickpea dal) and Bengali Lucchi (deep-fried flatbreads).
Serving Suggestions
Bengali Phool Gobhir Paturi pairs beautifully with the richness of Cholar Dal and the crispy, airy texture of Lucchi. The dish is ideal for a hearty and satisfying lunch or dinner, offering a comforting yet light option for vegetarians. You can also enjoy it with plain rice for a more traditional Bengali meal.
Pro Tips
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies according to your spice tolerance. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for a milder version.
- Substitute for Poppy Seeds: If poppy seeds are hard to find, you can substitute them with sesame seeds or ground almonds for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
- Alternative to Oil: For a healthier option, you can use ghee (clarified butter) instead of regular oil. It will add a rich, authentic flavor to the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Bengali Phool Gobhir Paturi is a wonderful recipe that highlights the flavors of traditional Bengali cooking. With its simple ingredients and aromatic spices, it offers a comforting meal for any occasion.
