Carrot & Capsicum Sabzi Recipe – No Onion No Garlic
A Flavorful North Indian Side Dish for Your Meal
This vibrant and healthy Carrot & Capsicum Sabzi (vegetable curry) is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that is both aromatic and flavorful, yet made without the use of onions or garlic. The blend of spices, including mustard seeds, kalonji (onion nigella seeds), and dry mango powder (amchur), elevates this simple vegetable medley into a delightful and fragrant dish. Perfect for a wholesome vegetarian meal, this dish pairs wonderfully with Gujarati Dal, warm phulkas, and a cooling side of raita.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots (Gajjar), chopped | 4 medium-sized |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum), cut into squares | 1 large |
| Kalonji (Onion Nigella Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
North Indian
Course
Side Dish
Diet
Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spices and Vegetables:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a kadai (wok) or a deep pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and kalonji (onion nigella seeds). Allow them to splutter for a few seconds, filling the kitchen with their fragrant aroma. -
Sauté the Carrots:
Once the seeds have spluttered, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the oil, followed by the chopped carrots. Stir the carrots well and sauté them until they begin to soften, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes. -
Add the Bell Peppers:
Once the carrots have softened, add the green bell pepper (capsicum) cut into squares. Sprinkle in some salt and continue sautéing the mixture, ensuring the peppers cook until tender but still slightly crisp. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. -
Incorporate the Spices:
Next, add the coriander powder (dhania), garam masala powder, red chilli powder, and amchur (dry mango powder) to the vegetables. Stir well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices. The spice blend will enhance the natural flavors of the carrots and capsicum, adding warmth and depth to the dish. -
Cook the Masala:
After mixing the spices, sprinkle a small amount of water into the pan, just enough to form a slight gravy, and cover the kadai with a lid. Allow the masala to cook for 10 minutes on medium heat, letting the flavors meld and the vegetables cook thoroughly. -
Check for Salt:
Before turning off the heat, taste the sabzi to check the salt levels. Adjust the seasoning if needed and mix again to distribute the salt evenly. -
Serve:
Once the vegetables are cooked and the masala is perfectly blended, remove the pan from the heat. Serve your Carrot & Capsicum Sabzi hot with a side of Gujarati Dal, freshly made phulkas, and a refreshing bowl of raita for a complete, satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~110 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | ~250mg |
| Potassium | ~450mg |
| Vitamin A | 150% of Daily Value (DV) |
| Vitamin C | 70% of DV |
Tips for the Perfect Carrot & Capsicum Sabzi:
- Spice Adjustments: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red chilli powder and garam masala. On the other hand, for a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red chili powder and even add finely chopped green chilies.
- Oil Variations: If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute sunflower oil with mustard oil for an extra depth of flavor, typical of North Indian dishes.
- Optional Add-ins: For variation, you can add other vegetables like peas, potatoes, or green beans to the sabzi for more texture and flavor.
- Consistency: If you prefer a slightly saucier dish, you can add more water or a splash of vegetable broth to create a richer sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
This Carrot & Capsicum Sabzi is a perfect side dish for those who enjoy fresh, aromatic flavors without the use of onions and garlic. The combination of vibrant vegetables, piquant spices, and a subtle tang from the dry mango powder makes this dish an excellent addition to any North Indian meal. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, vegetarian side dish that is both satisfying and delicious!
