Mustard Vegetable Curry: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Indian Cuisine
The Mustard Vegetable Curry is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the tanginess of Dijon mustard with the richness of coconut milk, creating a smooth and aromatic curry base that perfectly complements a medley of vegetables. With a base of cumin, garlic, and a hint of spices like turmeric and red chili powder, this curry brings a depth of flavor that’s both unique and comforting. It’s ideal for pairing with crusty bread, steamed rice, or tawa paratha, making it an irresistible side dish or a perfect addition to your vegetarian dinner menu. Whether you serve it with your favorite roti or just enjoy it by itself, this curry promises to deliver a savory experience with every bite.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (grated) | 2 cloves |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 2 large onions |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coconut milk | 120 ml (about 1/2 cup) |
| Vegetable stock | 1 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Carrots (Gajjar) | 2 medium carrots, sliced into 1-inch rounds or lengthwise |
| Green beans (French Beans) | 5 to 6 beans, cut into 1-inch pieces, steamed |
| Green peas (Matar) | 1/4 cup, steamed |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 2 medium potatoes, boiled and diced |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Begin by steaming the vegetables: the carrots, green beans, green peas, and potatoes. You can use a steamer, pressure cooker, or a stovetop method. Keep the potatoes separate since they take longer to cook than the other vegetables. Once cooked, set the vegetables aside.
-
Start the Curry Base:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds (jeera) and let them sizzle for a few seconds to release their aroma.
- Add the grated garlic and chopped onions to the pan. Sauté until the onions become light pink and translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
-
Add the Spices:
- Once the onions are ready, add the red chili powder and turmeric powder to the pan. Stir well for a few seconds to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, allowing the flavors to blend.
-
Combine the Liquids:
- Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable stock, and stir the mixture to combine everything thoroughly. Add the Dijon mustard and a pinch of salt. Mix well, then taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or spices as needed to suit your preference.
-
Add the Steamed Vegetables:
- Carefully stir in the steamed carrots, green beans, peas, and boiled potatoes into the curry base. Stir gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
-
Simmer the Curry:
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the curry simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors of the mustard sauce.
-
Serve:
- Once done, remove from heat and your Mustard Vegetable Curry is ready to be served. Serve hot with steamed rice, crusted bread, or tawa paratha for a delightful dinner experience.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice Levels: Adjust the level of chili powder to suit your spice tolerance. You can even add a pinch of garam masala at the end for extra warmth.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or zucchini, depending on your preference or seasonal availability.
- Coconut Milk Substitute: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-fat coconut milk or substitute with almond milk for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This curry pairs wonderfully with naan or steamed rice. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside other Indian curries, dals, and chutneys.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Carbohydrates | ~35g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~6g |
| Sugars | ~7g |
| Fat | ~8g |
| Saturated Fat | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)
This Mustard Vegetable Curry is a unique vegetarian side dish that’s packed with flavor, a perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and spicy elements. With a quick prep and cook time, it’s a convenient yet satisfying dish to prepare for any weeknight dinner or as part of a larger meal. Enjoy this refreshing and hearty dish, and impress your guests with this unique take on a classic Indian curry!
