Akh Garlic ki Sabzi, or whole garlic vegetable dish, is a unique and flavorful vegetarian recipe that showcases the surprising versatility of garlic. Often overlooked beyond its use as a seasoning, this recipe elevates whole garlic cloves to the star of the show, transforming them into a subtly sweet and savory delight. Forget the harsh pungency you might expect – this dish balances the garlic's intensity with warming spices and tender vegetables, creating a complex and satisfying culinary experience. The result is a side dish perfect for complementing roti, naan, or even rice.
This recipe, inspired by the culinary expertise of Chef Ajay Chopra, is a testament to the simple elegance achievable with fresh, high-quality ingredients. We'll guide you through each step of preparing this aromatic and flavorful sabzi, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's delve into the detailed, step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Mixer
Ingredients
- Cloves: 4 pieces
- Green cardamom: a little
- Cinnamon: a little
- Mace: 1 piece
- Bay leaf: 2 pieces
- Dried red chili: a little
- Cumin seeds: a little
- Asafoetida: 1/2 teaspoon
- Fenugreek seeds: a little
- Onion
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Coriander powder
- Turmeric powder
- Cumin powder
- Red chili powder: a little
- Salt: a little
- Garam masala: a little
- Tomatoes: 2-3
- Mustard oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Build the Base
- Heat mustard oil in a pan and add cloves, green cardamom, cinnamon, mace, bay leaf, dried red chili, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and fenugreek seeds. Cook for about a minute.
- Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown (5-6 minutes).
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, salt, and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add fresh tomato puree (made from 2-3 blended tomatoes) and cook until the masala thickens slightly.
- Add water to prevent burning.
Step 2. Prepare and Incorporate the Garlic
- In a separate pan, heat mustard oil and sauté 4-5 whole garlic cloves and 3-4 whole onions.
- Set aside the sautéed garlic and onions.
- Add the sautéed garlic to the main gravy and cook for 5-7 minutes on low flame.
Step 3. Finishing Touches and Simmering
- Add the sautéed onions and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- If needed, add more water to adjust the gravy consistency.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes on low flame until the gravy thickens and the garlic is tender.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
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Tips
- The golden brown onions will dissolve nicely into the gravy.
- Use fresh tomato puree for a better taste and convenience.
- Cooking the garlic for a longer time ensures its flavor infuses well into the gravy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of whole garlic cloves?
No, this recipe specifically relies on the texture and subtle sweetness of roasting whole garlic cloves. Pre-minced garlic will result in a different flavor profile.
2. What can I substitute for the spinach if I don't have it?
Other greens like kale, mustard greens, or even fenugreek leaves can be used as substitutes. Adjust cooking time depending on the vegetable's tenderness.
3. How can I store leftover Akh Garlic Sabzi?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
This Akh Garlic Sabzi recipe, inspired by Chef Ajay Chopra, offers a unique and flavorful vegetarian dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The subtle sweetness of the roasted garlic perfectly complements the other vegetables, creating a truly satisfying culinary experience. Enjoy this delightful side dish with your favorite breads or rice, and savor the surprising deliciousness of whole garlic!