Vegetable Bhaji

Popular Indian dish made with a variety of vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, beans), chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tomato, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped (optional)
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1/2 inch ginger, grated
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preparation:
    • Wash and chop all the vegetables into small, uniform-sized pieces.
    • Finely chop the onion, tomato, green chilies, and bell peppers.
    • Grate the ginger and mince the garlic.
  2. Cooking:
    • Heat oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Allow them to splutter.
    • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  3. Add Aromatics:
    • Add grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Spices:
    • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Vegetables:
    • Add the chopped mixed vegetables and mix them with the spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Tomatoes:
    • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate.
  7. Bell Peppers (Optional):
    • If using bell peppers, add them at this stage and sauté for a couple of minutes.
  8. Garam Masala:
    • Sprinkle garam masala over the vegetables and mix well.
  9. Cover and Simmer:
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the vegetables simmer until they are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  10. Garnish:
    • Once the vegetables are cooked, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
  11. Serve:
    • Vegetable Bhaji can be served hot with Indian bread like chapati, naan, or as a side dish with rice.