Asparagus with Indian Spices
This vibrant and flavorful dish brings a touch of Indian cuisine to the table, using fresh asparagus and a blend of aromatic spices to elevate this simple vegetable. With its mild spice profile, it is perfect for those seeking a flavorful yet approachable vegetarian meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to Indian spices, this recipe will make for an enjoyable culinary adventure. It’s an ideal side dish to complement any main course or a great option for a light vegetarian lunch.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Fresh ginger (3cm piece) | 1 |
| Asparagus (chopped) | 500g |
| Rapeseed oil | 3 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Fennel seeds | Β½ tsp |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Kashmiri chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Amchoor powder (dried mango powder) | Β½ tsp |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 3 |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ginger and Garlic Paste:
- Begin by crushing the garlic and ginger in a pestle and mortar until they form a smooth paste. This will serve as the aromatic base for your dish.
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Spice Tempering:
- In a medium-sized pan, heat the rapeseed oil over a medium flame. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin and fennel seeds. Allow them to sizzle and release their fragrance, which will infuse the oil with their rich, earthy aroma.
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SautΓ©ing the Aromatics:
- Add the sliced onions and finely chopped green chilies to the pan, followed by the freshly crushed ginger and garlic paste. Cook everything for about 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft, allowing the spices to blend together.
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Cook the Asparagus:
- Toss in the chopped asparagus, stirring well to coat it in the aromatic mixture. Add salt, Kashmiri chili powder, and amchoor powder (dried mango powder). These ingredients will give the dish its characteristic tang and mild heat. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the asparagus to soften slightly but retain its crunch.
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Add the Tomatoes:
- Stir in the finely chopped tomatoes and let the mixture cook for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, creating a lightly spiced sauce around the asparagus.
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Final Touches:
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary. Once everything is cooked and well-mixed, remove from heat.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian breads like naan or roti, or can be served over steamed basmati rice for a hearty meal. It can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone dish or as part of a larger vegetarian spread. For a more indulgent version, consider pairing it with a dollop of cooling yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh coriander to balance the spices.
Allergen Information:
This recipe is free from common allergens such as dairy, gluten, and nuts. However, it does contain sesame oil and mustard seeds (in the form of rapeseed oil) that some individuals may be sensitive to. Always check labels for potential allergens if you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary restrictions.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it a perfect choice for vegetarians and vegans alike.
- Gluten-Free: No gluten-containing ingredients are used, so it’s suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free: There are no dairy ingredients, making it safe for individuals avoiding dairy.
Conclusion:
Asparagus with Indian Spices is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that showcases the beauty of fresh vegetables combined with bold, aromatic spices. The dish is quick to prepare, requiring just 15 minutes of your time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal. The balance of flavors β from the mild heat of the spices to the slight tang of the amchoor powder β makes this dish a memorable experience for the taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main or a side dish, this vibrant recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold and flavorful cuisine.
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Spice Level: Mild
Rating: 3.5/5 (Based on 71 votes)
Views: 76,735
