Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal? Look no further! This recipe for simple Indian vegetable curry offers a vibrant explosion of flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let's dive into this satisfying and flavorful vegetarian dish!
Ingredients: A Rainbow of Spices and Vegetables
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans, cauliflower – your choice!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
This easy recipe is designed for even the busiest of cooks. Let's get cooking!
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom the spices: Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala to the pan. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the spices.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and vegetable broth to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add the vegetables: Stir in your chosen mixed vegetables. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with cooked rice or naan bread. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade Indian vegetable curry!
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Curry
- Spice it up: Adjust the chili powder to your liking. For a milder curry, use less; for a spicier kick, add more.
- Vegetable variety: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Potatoes, spinach, eggplant, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions.
- Fresh is best: Using fresh ginger and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor of your curry.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked vegetables will lose their texture and nutrients. Cook until tender-crisp for the best results.
Variations: Explore the Flavors
- Lentil Curry: Add a cup of red lentils for a heartier, protein-rich meal.
- Coconut Curry: Stir in a can of coconut milk for a creamy and rich curry.
- Creamy Tomato Curry: Add a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream at the end for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal, rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. The nutritional information will vary based on the specific vegetables used. A general estimate per serving is approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fiber: 6-8g
This simple veg dinner recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are easy to make. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful meal!