Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy vegetarian dish to add to your repertoire? Look no further than Kathal Ki Sabzi! This flavorful Indian jackfruit curry is not only incredibly satisfying but also a fantastic way to incorporate this versatile fruit into your diet. Jackfruit, known for its unique texture and subtle sweetness, transforms beautifully into a hearty and fulfilling curry. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, catering to both beginner cooks and seasoned culinary enthusiasts seeking a delicious homemade meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet flavorful Kathal Ki Sabzi!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jackfruit, chopped (canned is fine, ensure it's drained well)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- 2-3 curry leaves
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the oil or ghee in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the curry leaves and green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
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Add the onions and tomatoes: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and golden brown. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and grated ginger. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
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Bloom the spices: Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning. This step is crucial for unlocking the full flavor of the spices.
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Add the jackfruit: Stir in the chopped cooked jackfruit. Mix well, ensuring the jackfruit is coated with the spice mixture.
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Simmer and Season: Add salt to taste and a splash of water if needed. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
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Garnish and Serve: Once the Kathal Ki Sabzi has thickened to your liking, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with roti, naan, rice, or your favorite Indian bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Kathal Ki Sabzi:
- Choosing your jackfruit: Canned jackfruit is convenient, but you can also use fresh jackfruit. If using fresh, ensure you boil it until tender before adding it to the curry.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your preference. Feel free to experiment with other spices like asafoetida (hing) for a deeper flavor.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking the jackfruit can make it mushy. Cook it until tender but still holds its shape.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker curry, simmer it for a longer time or add a little cornstarch mixed with water at the end.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like potatoes, peas, or carrots.
- Coconut milk: For a richer and creamier curry, stir in a can of coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fat: 10-15g
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Kathal Ki Sabzi! This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meal options. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!