North Indian dish Aloo Gobi Masala - how to prepare

 

Aloo Gobi Masala is a popular North Indian dish made with potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi) cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Here's a recipe for making Aloo Gobi Masala:

**Ingredients:**

- 2 cups cauliflower florets

- 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced

- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, finely chopped

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced

- 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)

- 1/2 cup green peas (optional)

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

- Salt to taste

- Cooking oil

- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Parboil Cauliflower and Potatoes:**

   - In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the cauliflower florets and diced potatoes for about 2-3 minutes.

   - Drain and set them aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**

   - Heat oil in a pan or skillet over medium heat.

   - Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

   - Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

3. **Add Aromatics:**

   - Add minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for another minute or until the raw smell disappears.

4. **Add Spices:**

   - Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, ground coriander, and ground cumin. Stir well to combine with the onions and aromatics.

5. **Tomatoes and Cook:**

   - Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil begins to separate from the mixture. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

6. **Add Potatoes, Cauliflower, and Peas:**

   - Add the parboiled potatoes and cauliflower to the pan. If using green peas, add them as well.

   - Stir everything together, ensuring the vegetables are coated with the tomato and spice mixture.

7. **Simmer:**

   - Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the vegetables simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender. Stir occasionally.

8. **Garam Masala and Salt:**

   - Once the vegetables are cooked, add garam masala and salt to taste. Adjust the spice level if needed.

9. **Garnish and Serve:**

   - Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

   - Serve Aloo Gobi Masala hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Enjoy your homemade Aloo Gobi Masala!