Cauliflower & Potato Stir Fry with Nigella Seeds (Kalonji Wali Aloo Gobhi Ki Sabzi) Recipe
Introduction
Kalauji Wali Aloo Gobhi Ki Sabzi, or Cauliflower & Potato Stir Fry with Nigella Seeds, is a popular dish from Bengal, known for its unique and fragrant flavor. Unlike the typical Punjabi Aloo Gobhi, which is spiced and cooked with various masalas, this Bengali variant adds a distinct flavor profile with the use of kalonji (nigella seeds) and mustard oil. The slight sweetness from sugar and the spiciness from green chilies make this dish a perfect accompaniment for chapati or rice, creating a delightful contrast to everyday meals.
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings together the heartiness of potatoes and cauliflower, with the added goodness of mustard oil and nigella seeds. It is an easy-to-make, vegetarian dish that’s sure to please the taste buds with its blend of aromatic spices and vegetables.
Ingredients
The ingredients required for preparing this scrumptious Aloo Gobhi Sabzi are:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (Phool Gobhi) | 1 medium-sized, cut into large pieces |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 2 large, peeled and chopped |
| Mustard Oil (Sarson Ka Tel) | 2 tablespoons |
| Nigella Seeds (Kalonji) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chilies (Hari Mirch) | 3, slit |
| Sugar (Shakkar) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Tomatoes (Tamatar) | 1 small, finely chopped |
| Fresh Coriander (Hara Dhaniya) | A handful, finely chopped |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
To prepare Kalonji Wali Aloo Gobhi Ki Sabzi, follow these simple steps:
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Heat the Oil: In a kadhai (wok), heat the mustard oil over medium flame. Once hot, add the nigella seeds (kalonji) and let them sizzle for 20-25 seconds, releasing their aroma.
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Add the Mustard Seeds and Green Chilies: Quickly add the mustard seeds (rai) and slit green chilies to the oil. Stir them for about 10-15 seconds to allow them to splutter.
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Add the Vegetables: Now, add the chopped cauliflower (phool gobhi) and potatoes (aloo) to the kadhai, along with salt and sugar. Stir everything well, making sure the vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
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Cook the Vegetables: Let the vegetables cook for about 10-15 minutes until the cauliflower and potatoes start to turn golden brown. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Add Water and Simmer: Once the vegetables are lightly browned, add a little water (just enough to cover the base) to help them cook further. Cover the kadhai with a lid and let the sabzi simmer for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and cooked through.
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Finishing Touches: Once the water has evaporated, and the vegetables are cooked, drizzle a teaspoon of mustard oil over the sabzi for an extra burst of flavor. Mix well.
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Serve: Garnish the sabzi with finely chopped fresh coriander (hara dhaniya) and serve hot with chapati, paratha, or dal-chawal (lentils with rice). The flavor of this dish pairs wonderfully with a traditional Bengali meal or even as a comforting side for lunch or dinner.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains mustard oil and mustard seeds, which are common allergens. Make sure to check for any mustard allergies before serving. Additionally, while it is naturally gluten-free, always ensure that all ingredients used are free from cross-contamination if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
Dietary Preferences
This dish is entirely vegetarian, making it suitable for a wide range of diets, including vegan and plant-based lifestyles. It is also dairy-free and gluten-free, which makes it an ideal choice for individuals with food sensitivities or those following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet. The dish is naturally rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, providing a healthy and satisfying option for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals.
Conclusion
Kalonji Wali Aloo Gobhi Ki Sabzi is a perfect blend of flavors, from the earthy and sweet cauliflower and potatoes to the aromatic kalonji and mustard oil. The slight tang from tomatoes and the balance of sweetness and spiciness make it an ideal dish to serve with chapati or dal. With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, this recipe offers a quick, wholesome, and delicious meal that is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a weeknight dinner or a festive lunch, this Cauliflower & Potato Stir Fry will surely delight everyone with its comforting and flavorful appeal.
