Tired of endless dishes and cleanup after dinner? Craving a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that's ready in under an hour? Then look no further! This one-pot Indian vegetable dinner recipe is your answer. Packed with vibrant spices and an array of nutritious vegetables, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and will quickly become a family favorite. It's a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its best!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom Spices: Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), and garam masala to the pot. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This process, called blooming, releases the full flavor of the spices.
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Simmer Vegetables: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cauliflower, broccoli, and green beans. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot over cooked rice or with naan bread for a complete and delicious meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Adjust the cooking time depending on the size and type of vegetables you are using.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Lentil Curry: Add 1 cup of red lentils for a heartier and more protein-rich meal.
- Coconut Milk Curry: Stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier flavor.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, tofu, or paneer for extra protein.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 15-20g Fiber: 10-15g
This one-pot Indian vegetable dinner is a fantastic example of healthy meals and easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade cooking! This is definitely one of the best recipes for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.