Veg Kadai Recipe
Veg Kadai Recipe: As a housewife and an avid food lover, I’m always on the lookout for delicious and wholesome recipes to please my family and friends. One such dish that holds a special place in my heart is Veg Kadai. The first time I tried this delectable dish at a local Indian restaurant, I was hooked. The aroma of the freshly ground spices wafting through the air, the medley of colorful vegetables, and the perfect balance of flavors had me craving for more. Inspired by the rich taste and texture of Veg Kadai, I decided to recreate this classic Indian dish at home, and it’s been a hit ever since!
What is Veg Kadai?
Veg Kadai, also known as Kadai Vegetable, is a popular North Indian dish that features a medley of vegetables cooked in a flavorful and aromatic tomato-based gravy. The name “Kadai” refers to the traditional Indian wok used for cooking this dish, which imparts a unique, smoky flavor to the vegetables. The dish is characterized by its rich, semi-dry gravy, infused with the distinctive taste of freshly ground kadai masala. A symphony of flavors, Veg Kadai is a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes, making it an irresistible treat for the taste buds.
Variations
Veg Kadai offers plenty of room for experimentation and customization. You can choose from a wide array of vegetables such as bell peppers, cauliflower, carrots, green beans, and baby corn to create your own unique version of the dish. Some variations also include paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for added protein. Feel free to play with different combinations of vegetables and spices to find the perfect Veg Kadai recipe that suits your taste preferences.
Nutrition Benefits
Veg Kadai is not only delicious but also packed with an array of nutritional benefits. The dish is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the assortment of vegetables used. Moreover, the tomato-based gravy provides a good dose of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that promotes heart health and may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. The use of freshly ground spices in the kadai masala ensures that you get the maximum flavor and health benefits from the spices. Additionally, when prepared with minimal oil, Veg Kadai makes for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Step by Step Veg Kadai Recipe
Veg Kadai Recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients for 4 Servings
- 200 g mixed vegetables bell peppers, cauliflower, carrots, green beans, baby corn, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 Onions finely chopped
- 2 Tomato pureed
- 1/4 cup cashew soaked in hot water for 15 minutes and blended into a smooth paste
- 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chillies slit
- 1 tsp Cumin (Jeera)
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
Kadai Masala:
- 2 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp Cumin (Jeera)
- 1 tbsp Fennel (Saunf)
- 4-5 dried red chilli
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup coriander leaves / cilantro
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep Steps
- Begin by preparing the kadai masala. Dry roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, dried red chilies, and black peppercorns in a pan over low heat for 3-4 minutes, until fragrant. Let it cool down and then grind it into a fine powder. Set aside.
- Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onion, puree the tomatoes, and slit the green chilies. Soak cashew nuts in hot water for 15 minutes, then blend them into a smooth paste.
- Measure and set aside all the ingredients, ensuring that everything is ready before you begin cooking.
Cooking Steps
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a kadai or a large wok over medium heat. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and golden brown. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, until the raw smell of the ginger-garlic paste disappears.
- Stir in the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Add the prepared kadai masala and salt to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to blend well with the tomato mixture.
- Add the chopped vegetables to the kadai, and mix well to ensure they are coated evenly with the masala. Cover the kadai with a lid and let the vegetables cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cashew paste and tomato ketchup. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finally, sprinkle garam masala and chopped coriander leaves as garnish. Give it a quick stir and remove from heat.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
Notes & Tips
- Adjust the spice level to your preference by increasing or decreasing the number of green chilies and red chilies used in the recipe.
- You can also add paneer or tofu to the dish for added protein and a different texture.
- Serve Veg Kadai hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Veg Kadai Recipe
What makes Veg Kadai different from other Indian vegetable dishes?
Veg Kadai is a unique dish due to its rich and flavorful gravy, which is made using freshly ground kadai masala. The combination of roasted spices and the addition of cashew paste creates a mouth-watering aroma and a delightful taste that sets it apart from other Indian vegetable dishes.
Can I use store-bought kadai masala instead of making it from scratch?
While store-bought kadai masala can save you some time, making your own kadai masala at home can greatly enhance the flavor of your Veg Kadai. Freshly ground spices offer a more intense and authentic taste, making the extra effort well worth it.
Is Veg Kadai a vegan-friendly dish?
Yes, Veg Kadai is a vegan-friendly dish as it is made with vegetables, oil, and spices. However, make sure to check the ingredients of any store-bought spice blends or tomato ketchup to ensure they are vegan.
Can I make Veg Kadai with frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
You can certainly use frozen vegetables in a pinch, but fresh vegetables will provide a better taste and texture. If using frozen vegetables, ensure they are fully thawed and drained before adding them to the kadai.
What other vegetables can be added to Veg Kadai?
You can experiment with various vegetables in Veg Kadai, such as cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different vegetables have different cooking times.
How long can I store Veg Kadai in the refrigerator?
Veg Kadai can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain its consistency and heat it over low flame.
Can Veg Kadai be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Veg Kadai in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
What can I serve with Veg Kadai?
Veg Kadai pairs well with Indian bread such as naan, roti, or paratha. You can also serve it with steamed rice or jeera rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
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