Spiced Watermelon Curry with Carrots and Bell Peppers
Spiced Watermelon Curry with Carrots & Peppers
Welcome to a vibrant and refreshing culinary adventure! This Spiced Watermelon Curry with Carrots & Peppers is a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Perfect for a light dinner, this dish is a true homage to Indian cuisine’s versatility and creativity. The juicy watermelon melds beautifully with earthy carrots and crunchy bell peppers, creating a wholesome and unique curry. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice and a refreshing salad for a delightful summery meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Watermelon (cubed, without skin) | 2 cups |
| Carrot (diced) | 1 |
| Green Bell Pepper (diced) | 1 |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1 cup |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chili Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chilies | 2 |
| Coriander Leaves (finely chopped) | 4 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cooking Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
| Vitamin A | 25% DV |
Preparation Time
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Servings
This recipe serves 4.
Cuisine
Indian
Course
Dinner
Diet
Vegetarian
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the watermelon, carrots, and bell peppers. Remove any seeds from the watermelon. Make the homemade tomato puree and set aside. |
| 2 | Heat a tablespoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or wok over medium heat. Add the ajwain seeds and allow them to crackle. |
| 3 | Add the diced carrots and bell peppers to the pan. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to season and stir fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Cover the pan to speed up the cooking process. |
| 4 | Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder. Allow the spices to coat the vegetables evenly and cook for another minute. |
| 5 | Pour in the tomato puree, followed by the watermelon cubes. Add a cup of water and adjust the salt to taste. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. |
| 6 | Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the curry simmer for about 10 minutes. The watermelon will soften slightly, and the flavors will meld beautifully. |
| 7 | After 10 minutes, taste the curry and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Turn off the heat and transfer the curry to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the finely chopped coriander leaves over the top. |
| 8 | Serve this Spiced Watermelon Curry with Carrots & Peppers hot alongside steamed jasmine rice and a refreshing salad, like a carrot, cucumber, and tomato salad dressed with lemon and coriander. |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this curry with a steaming bowl of jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful gravy.
- Add a side of Carrot, Cucumber, and Tomato Salad with Lemon Dressing for a refreshing contrast.
- For a heartier meal, include crispy papad or buttery naan bread on the side.
Chef’s Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, lightly roast the dry red chilies before adding them to the dish.
- If you enjoy more spice, increase the quantity of red chili powder or add fresh green chilies.
- To make the curry vegan-friendly, ensure your tomato puree is plant-based and free from any dairy additives.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spiced Watermelon Curry isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience! The natural sweetness of watermelon balances the tangy tomato base and the warmth of the spices, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. It’s a fantastic way to showcase watermelon in a savory avatar, making it a conversation starter at your dinner table.
So gather your ingredients, and let this recipe transport you to a world of vibrant flavors and heartwarming comfort. Happy cooking! 🌟
