Cauliflower and Red Bell Pepper Stir Fry
(A flavorful South Indian-style dish)
This simple and flavorful stir fry features cauliflower and red bell peppers, seasoned with aromatic spices and herbs. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal side dish for lunch, and pairs beautifully with dal (lentil curry) and chapati (flatbread). This vegetarian recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, packed with the goodness of fresh vegetables and Indian spices.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (cut into small pieces) | 1 cup |
| Red Bell Pepper (thinly sliced) | 1 medium |
| Coriander Powder | 1 tsp |
| Red Chili Powder | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | ½ tsp |
| Garam Masala Powder | ½ tsp |
| Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves, crushed) | 1 tsp |
| Oil | 2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 20 minutes
Total Time
- 30 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Cuisine
- South Indian
Course
- Lunch
Diet
- Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Blanch the Cauliflower
Start by adding the cauliflower florets to a pot of hot water. Add a pinch of salt and turmeric powder to the water and cook for about 2 minutes on high heat. This will help soften the cauliflower slightly and retain its color. After 2 minutes, drain the cauliflower and set it aside. -
Heat the Oil and Prepare Spices
In a skillet or wok, heat 2 teaspoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir these spices for 30 seconds to allow them to release their aromas. -
Cook the Cauliflower
Add the blanched cauliflower to the pan and stir well, making sure the spices coat the florets. Cook for 5–6 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to absorb the flavors and soften further. -
Add Red Bell Peppers
Once the cauliflower is partially cooked, add the thinly sliced red bell pepper. Stir well to combine the vegetables with the spices. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the red bell peppers are tender but still crisp. -
Finish with Kasuri Methi
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the crushed kasuri methi over the stir fry. Mix everything together for a final burst of flavor. -
Serve
Serve the hot cauliflower and red bell pepper stir fry with dal fry and chapati for a wholesome lunch. This dish can also be enjoyed with rice or any other Indian flatbread of your choice.
Tips for a Perfect Cauliflower and Red Bell Pepper Stir Fry
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can squeeze a little lemon juice over the stir fry just before serving.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red chili powder.
- You can substitute the red bell pepper with green or yellow bell peppers for a different color variation.
- Kasuri methi adds a unique depth of flavor to this dish, but if it’s unavailable, you can skip it or try substituting with a small amount of fresh fenugreek leaves.
This Cauliflower and Red Bell Pepper Stir Fry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and fresh vegetables. The dish is not only easy to make but also brings a colorful and nutritious touch to your meal. Whether served alongside dal and roti, or simply as a snack, it is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!
