Dive into the vibrant flavors of this One-Pot Mixed Vegetable Curry, a fragrant and flavorful dish bursting with the warmth of five-spice powder. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout. Packed with a medley of colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli, this curry is not only visually appealing but also incredibly nutritious. The rich, savory sauce coats every vegetable perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Forget complicated multi-step recipes; this one-pot wonder simplifies the cooking process without compromising on taste.
The aromatic five-spice blend adds a unique depth and complexity, elevating this curry beyond the ordinary. From the initial sauté to the simmering perfection, every step is designed for effortless cooking. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's delve into the detailed, step-by-step process to create your own delicious One-Pot Mixed Vegetable Curry with Five Spice.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- Oil: 4 tablespoons
- Potatoes (small baby potatoes or regular, diced)
- Carrots
- Cumin seeds: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black mustard seeds (or yellow): 1/2 teaspoon
- Nigella seeds: 1/2 teaspoon
- Fennel seeds: 1/4 teaspoon
- Fenugreek seeds: 6-7
- Dry red chilies: 2
- Bay leaves (Indian preferred): 2
- Onion: sliced
- Water: 4 cups
- Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon
- Ginger (finely grated): 1 heaped teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Green beans
- Shredded cabbage
- Chopped tomatoes
- Frozen green peas: 1/4 cup
- Cilantro (or other herbs)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Vegetables and Prepare Spices
- Heat oil over medium-high heat. Add minced potatoes and carrots. Fry until potatoes are slightly golden brown.
- Combine cumin seeds, mustard seeds, nigella seeds, fennel seeds, and fenugreek seeds in a bowl.
- Remove potatoes and carrots. Add cauliflower to the pan and fry until light golden brown.
- Add more oil to the pan. Fry dry red chilies briefly, remove one for garnish. Add bay leaves and the five-spice blend; fry on low heat until fragrant.
- Add sliced onions and fry on medium-low heat until softened.
Step 2. Build the Curry
- Lower heat, add water, turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and grated ginger. Stir for a few seconds.
- Add the fried potatoes, carrots, and cauliflower back to the pan.
- Add salt and a cup of hot water. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
Step 3. Add Remaining Vegetables and Simmer
- Add green beans and shredded cabbage. Cover and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes (and fresh green peas if using). Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Add frozen green peas and cilantro. Cover and cook for another minute.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot with rice or roti.
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- Use whatever seeds you have on hand if you can't find all the spices listed.
- Fry the five-spice blend on low heat to prevent burning and bitterness.
- Don't overcook the vegetables; they should be tender but not mushy.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 60-70g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables. Cauliflower, green beans, peas, and potatoes all work well.
2. What if I don't have all five spices?
You can still make the curry! Just use what you have available. A blend of ginger, garlic, and chili powder will still create a flavorful dish.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This curry tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This One-Pot Mixed Vegetable Curry with Five Spice is a testament to the magic of simple, flavorful cooking. Enjoy the vibrant colors and satisfying taste of this healthy and easy-to-make dish, perfect for any occasion. Now go forth and create your own delicious culinary masterpiece!