Vegan Malai Gobhi Recipe: A Creamy Cauliflower Delight
Discover the rich and luscious flavors of Vegan Malai Gobhi, a North Indian-inspired dish that showcases the versatility of cauliflower, often referred to as gobhi in Hindi. This delightful recipe combines the subtle sweetness of coconut milk and cashew paste with aromatic spices to create a creamy sauce that envelops tender cauliflower florets. Perfectly paired with phulkas (Indian flatbreads) and a refreshing tomato onion cucumber raita, this dish is ideal for a comforting weekday lunch or dinner. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that is not only vegan but also bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (gobi) | 2 cups, cut into florets |
| Cashew nuts | 1/4 cup, ground to a fine paste |
| Coconut milk | 1/4 cup |
| Onion | 1, roughly chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 inch |
| Green Chilli | 1 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 |
| Bay leaf (tej patta) | 1 |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | A pinch |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 2 teaspoons |
| Green Chilli (for garnish) | 1, sliced |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Preparation of Cauliflower: Begin by cleaning the cauliflower and cutting it into small florets. To ensure your cauliflower is clean and free from any unwanted guests, soak the florets in warm water mixed with a pinch of salt. This will help de-worm the cauliflower. After soaking, set the florets aside.
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Making Cashew Paste: In a mixer grinder, combine the cashew nuts with a little water to create a smooth, fine paste. This cashew paste will provide the creamy texture essential to the dish.
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Sautéing Aromatics: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cloves and bay leaf, allowing them to release their fragrant oils into the oil for about a minute.
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Cooking the Base: While the spices are infusing, prepare a paste using the onion, ginger, garlic, and green chilli. Add this aromatic mixture to the pan and sauté until the raw smell dissipates, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Adding Cauliflower: Drain the cauliflower florets from the soaking water and add them to the pan. Stir well to combine and sauté for about a minute to coat the florets with the spices and aromatics.
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Spicing it Up: Sprinkle the garam masala, black pepper powder, and cardamom powder over the cauliflower. Pour in 1 cup of water, stir to mix, and cover the pan with a lid. Let the cauliflower cook until it becomes tender but still holds its shape, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
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Incorporating Cashew Paste: Once the cauliflower is nearly cooked, add the cashew paste to the pan. Season the mixture with salt to taste, stirring gently to combine, and let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
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Finishing Touches: Gradually add the coconut milk to the mixture, adjusting the consistency by adding a little more water if needed. Allow the dish to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Adding Kasuri Methi: To finish the dish, gently crush the kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the malai gobhi. This will infuse a wonderful aroma and flavor. Garnish with sliced green chillies for an added touch of freshness and color.
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Serving Suggestion: Your Vegan Malai Gobhi is now ready to serve! Pair it with warm phulkas and a side of refreshing tomato onion cucumber raita for a wholesome meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Malai Gobhi
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables such as peas or carrots for additional color and nutrition.
- Nuts Alternative: If you’re allergic to cashews, you can substitute them with silken tofu for a creamy texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies according to your spice preference, or omit them for a milder dish.
- Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it a great option for meal prepping.
This Vegan Malai Gobhi recipe is not just a meal but a celebration of flavor and texture, bringing together the essence of North Indian cuisine in a delightful way. Enjoy this creamy cauliflower dish as a comforting meal that warms the heart and delights the palate!
