Navratan Korma Recipe
Navratan Korma Recipe: As a housewife, food critic, and passionate cook, I have a soft spot for dishes that are rich in flavor and exude an air of royalty. Navratan Korma is one such dish that always leaves me feeling like I’ve created a feast for kings and queens. The aroma of the spices, the sweetness of the nuts, and the medley of vegetables all come together to create a culinary experience that’s truly memorable. The creamy, velvety texture and the vibrant colors of the dish make Navratan Korma not just a delight for the taste buds but a visual treat as well.
What is Navratan Korma
Navratan Korma is a luxurious, Mughlai-inspired Indian dish made with a medley of nine different vegetables, fruits, and nuts (hence the name ‘Navratan’ which means ‘nine jewels’ in Hindi). This dish is characterized by its rich, creamy gravy that is delicately spiced and perfectly balanced with sweetness from the addition of fruits and nuts. The nine jewels in the korma represent the nine ingredients used in the dish, which come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Variations
There are several variations of Navratan Korma that you can experiment with, depending on your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Some variations include:
- Replacing some of the vegetables with paneer or tofu for added protein.
- Using different combinations of nuts like almonds, pistachios, or walnuts.
- Adding dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or dates for extra sweetness.
- Adjusting the level of spiciness by adding more or less green chilies or red chili powder.
- Using coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream for a vegan or dairy-free version.
Nutrition benefits
Navratan Korma is not only a flavorful and visually appealing dish but also packed with nutrition. The medley of vegetables provides an array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Nuts and dried fruits contribute healthy fats and natural sweetness, while the spices offer various health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Step by Step Navratan Korma Recipe
Navratan Korma Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g mixed vegetables carrots, green beans, peas, cauliflower, and bell peppers, chopped
- 1 Potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 Onions finely chopped
- 2 Tomato pureed
- 1/2 cup cashew soaked in warm water for 15 minutes
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pineapple chopped
- 1/4 cup pomegranate arils / seeds
- 1/4 cup cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 tbsp ghee / clarified butter
- 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1/2 tsp Garam Masala
- 1/2 tsp Cumin (Jeera)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- coriander leaves / cilantro chopped, for garnishing
Instructions
Pre-Cooking prep steps
- Wash and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Keep them aside.
- Soak cashews in warm water for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Chop the pineapple and prepare the pomegranate seeds.
- Finely chop the onion and puree the tomatoes.
Cooking steps
- In a large pan or kadai, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture and the tomatoes are cooked well.
- Add the chopped vegetables and potatoes to the pan, along with 1/2 cup of water. Cover and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.
- Meanwhile, blend the soaked cashews with milk to form a smooth paste.
- Add the cashew paste, pineapple, raisins, and sugar to the pan, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
- Stir in the fresh cream, garam masala, and cardamom powder, and cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat.
- Check for seasoning and adjust salt, if necessary.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped coriander leaves before serving.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
Notes & Tips
- You can adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding more or less water, depending on your preference.
- Be mindful of the salt, as some vegetables release water while cooking, which might affect the seasoning.
- For a vegan version, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream and milk, and use oil instead of ghee.
- You can also experiment with different nuts and dried fruits for added variety and taste.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Navratan Korma Recipe
What makes Navratan Korma unique compared to other Indian curries?
Navratan Korma is a rich and creamy curry that combines nine different ingredients, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, and nuts. This dish is unique because it incorporates sweet elements like pineapple and raisins, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures that sets it apart from other Indian curries.
Can I make Navratan Korma vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To make Navratan Korma vegan, substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk. Replace ghee with oil for sautéing the ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version of this classic dish.
Is Navratan Korma gluten-free?
Yes, Navratan Korma is gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Be sure to check the labels of your spices and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
How can I adjust the spice level of Navratan Korma to my preference?
You can easily adjust the spice level of Navratan Korma by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder used in the recipe. You can also add a touch of green chili paste or finely chopped green chilies for an extra kick.
What is the best way to serve Navratan Korma?
Navratan Korma is best served with Indian bread like naan or roti, or with steamed rice. The rich and creamy gravy pairs wonderfully with the bread or rice, making it a satisfying and complete meal.
How can I store leftover Navratan Korma?
Store any leftover Navratan Korma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving, adding a little water or milk to loosen the gravy if needed.
Can I freeze Navratan Korma for later use?
Yes, you can freeze Navratan Korma for up to a month. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving.
What are some variations I can try with Navratan Korma?
You can experiment with different vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits to create your own unique version of Navratan Korma. Some popular variations include using paneer, green peas, or even tofu. You can also try adding cashews, almonds, or apricots for a different flavor profile.
Is Navratan Korma a healthy dish?
Navratan Korma is packed with vegetables and nuts, providing a good amount of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. However, it’s also a rich dish due to the cream and ghee used in the recipe. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet for a delicious and nutritious meal.
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