Navratan Korma Recipe
Navratan Korma, a delightful North Indian dish, is renowned for its rich flavors and creamy texture, making it a staple in many households. The name “Navratan” means “nine gems,” which refers to the variety of ingredients used, symbolizing richness and prosperity. This vegetarian dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family meal, pairing wonderfully with Whole Wheat Lachha Parathas or Mushroom Pulav.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cashew nuts | 5 |
| Badam (Almond) | 5 |
| Melon seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 |
| Mixed vegetables (such as potato, carrot, peas) | 1 ½ cups |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | ½ tablespoon |
| Coconut milk | ¾ cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee or oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Anardana powder (Pomegranate Seed Powder) | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Cashew nuts (for roasting) | 1 tablespoon |
| Raisins | 1 tablespoon |
| Ghee (for roasting) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 6g |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 50 minutes |
| Total Time | 65 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Preparation of the Paste: Begin by soaking the cashew nuts, almonds, and melon seeds in water for approximately 30 minutes to soften. After soaking, drain the water completely. Peel the skins off the almonds and place the soaked nuts and seeds in a blender. Blend with a little water to form a smooth paste, and set aside.
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Cooking the Base: Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Next, stir in the ginger-garlic paste, allowing it to cook for a minute until the raw smell dissipates.
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Adding Tomatoes and Spices: Incorporate the chopped tomato into the pan and give it a good stir. Once the tomatoes soften, add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and coriander powder, mixing everything well to create a fragrant base.
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Incorporating the Paste: Pour in the prepared nut and seed paste along with ¼ cup of water. Cook this mixture uncovered for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Adding Mixed Vegetables: Now, introduce the mixed vegetables into the pan, followed by 1 cup of water. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on low-medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Final Touches: Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the coconut milk, garam masala, and salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly and allow it to simmer for another 10 minutes on low heat.
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Roasting Nuts and Raisins: While the korma simmers, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a small pan over low heat. Add the cashew nuts and raisins, roasting them until the nuts are golden and the raisins plump.
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Combining Everything: Add the roasted cashews and raisins to the korma just before serving, and give it a gentle stir. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for an added touch of flavor and color.
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Serving Suggestions: Your Navratan Korma is now ready to be served! This rich and creamy dish pairs perfectly with Whole Wheat Lachha Parathas or Mushroom Pulav, making it a delightful choice for lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Navratan Korma, a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes the soul. With its vibrant ingredients and aromatic spices, this korma is a true representation of North Indian culinary heritage. Enjoy this dish during festive occasions or as a hearty meal any day of the week.
Enjoy Your Meal!
