Basic Masala Recipe for Indian Vegetables
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Description: Dive into the aromatic world of Indian cuisine with this delightful Basic Masala recipe for Indian vegetables. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, this recipe combines a medley of spices with tender vegetables to create a dish that’s both comforting and exotic. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Recipe Category: Asian
Keywords: Indian, Less than 30 Minutes, Stove Top
Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon asafoetida powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Urad Dal
- 1 teaspoon tamarind pulp
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Curry leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
- Fresh grated coconut, for garnish
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 42.2
- Fat Content: 0.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 34.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 8.8g
- Fiber Content: 2.5g
- Sugar Content: 2.6g
- Protein Content: 1.5g
Recipe Servings: 2
Recipe Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling, chopping, and boiling your choice of vegetables in a pot with a pinch of salt and just enough water to cover them. You can use a single type of vegetable or a combination, depending on your preference.
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Sauté the Onion: In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns transparent and begins to caramelize, releasing its sweet aroma.
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Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Once the onion is translucent, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and continue to sauté for another minute or until the raw smell disappears and the mixture becomes fragrant.
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Introduce the Masalas: Now, it’s time to add the spices! Sprinkle in the chili powder, turmeric, asafoetida powder, cumin seeds, and Urad Dal. Toss in a few fresh curry leaves to enhance the flavor profile. Stir well and let the spices toast in the oil until they release their aromatic essence and the seeds start to splutter.
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Incorporate the Cooked Vegetables: Carefully transfer the cooked vegetables from the pot into the pan with the spices. Stir gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the flavorful masala mixture.
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Blend the Flavors: Allow the vegetables to simmer in the masala for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll notice the rich aroma filling your kitchen, tempting your taste buds.
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Add Tamarind/Lime Juice: For a tangy twist, pour in the tamarind pulp or lime juice, depending on your preference. This adds a refreshing zing to the dish, balancing out the bold flavors of the spices.
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Garnish and Serve: Once the vegetables are cooked to perfection and the masala has coated every inch of them, it’s time to serve up this tantalizing dish. Sprinkle freshly grated coconut on top for a touch of freshness and texture. Serve hot and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!
Tips and Variations:
- Experiment with different combinations of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, and bell peppers to create your own unique version of this dish.
- Adjust the quantity of spices according to your taste preferences. If you like it spicy, add more chili powder, or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- For a richer taste, you can also add a splash of coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking.
- Serve this dish with steamed rice, chapati, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
This Basic Masala Recipe for Indian Vegetables is a celebration of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of India. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special Indian-themed feast, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s sure to delight your senses. Bon appétit!
