Are you craving a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal? Look no further! Dahi Kadhi, a classic Indian yogurt-based curry, is the perfect answer. This easy recipe is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a delightful blend of tangy, creamy, and subtly spiced flavors. It's a fantastic option for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or even a flavorful side dish. Let's dive into this amazing recipe and transform your weeknight meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon besan (gram flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2-3 curry leaves
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or beans
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Yogurt Mixture:
In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and water until smooth. Add the besan, turmeric powder, asafoetida, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Whisk vigorously to ensure there are no lumps. Set aside.
2. Tempering the Spices:
Heat the oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the curry leaves, chopped onion, and green chilies (if using). Sauté until the onions are lightly golden.
3. Combining and Simmering:
Carefully pour the yogurt mixture into the pan with the sautéed onions. Stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the kadhi slightly thickens. Do not boil vigorously; it might curdle the yogurt.
4. Adding Vegetables (Optional):
If you're using vegetables, add them to the kadhi during the last 5 minutes of simmering. Adjust cooking time depending on the vegetables you choose.
5. Serving:
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with rice, roti, or even as a dip with naan bread.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Dahi Kadhi:
- Whisk thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the yogurt and besan mixture well to prevent lumps.
- Low and slow: Simmering the kadhi on low heat is crucial to prevent the yogurt from curdling.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can make the kadhi too thick and lose its creamy texture.
- Adjust spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.
Variations:
- Roasted vegetables: Add roasted vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers for a smoky flavor.
- Different dals: Incorporate a small amount of toor dal (split pigeon peas) or masoor dal (red lentils) for a richer flavor and texture.
- Tadka variations: Experiment with different tempering spices like fenugreek seeds or garlic for added flavor complexity.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
This easy dahi kadhi recipe is a perfect example of healthy and delicious homemade cooking. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking, offering a delightful taste experience with minimal effort. Enjoy!