Jul 14 2026

Vegetable Jalfrezi Recipe

Time40m
Serves3

Seasonal vegetables | mushrooms | spiced tomato

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Ingredients

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Vegetable Prep

Method

Vegetable Prep

  1. 1

    Prepare vegetables

    Wash and trim all vegetables. Peel and slice carrot into thin coins or half-moons (about 1 cup). Slice bell pepper into 1/2" strips. Break cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Trim and halve green beans. Quarter mushrooms. Thinly slice the onion and chop one ripe tomato; set aside.

  2. 2

    To ensure even cooking, blanch or lightly steam the cauliflower, carrots and green beans for 2–3 minutes until just tender-crisp, then drain and set aside. This prevents overcooking in the pan while allowing peppers and mushrooms to finish quickly.

Spices & Aromatics

  1. 3

    Temper whole spices

    Heat a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 3 tbs vegetable oil. When oil is hot but not smoking, add 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1/2 tsp mustard seeds (if using), and curry leaves. Sizzle for 10–20 seconds until fragrant.

  2. 4

    Sweat aromatics

    Add the thinly sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté 5–7 minutes until the onion is soft and just beginning to brown at the edges. Add 1 tbs minced ginger, 1 tbs minced garlic and the slit green chili; cook 1 more minute until fragrant.

  3. 5

    Add ground spices

    Stir in 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp red chili powder (or paprika) and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook 30–45 seconds, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices but avoid burning.

Tomato Base & Finish

  1. 6

    Build the tomato sauce

    Add the chopped tomato (1 cup) and 1/2 cup tomato puree to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4–5 minutes until the fresh tomato starts to break down and the mixture thickens slightly.

  2. 7

    Add vegetables

    Add the par-cooked cauliflower, carrots and green beans, the sliced bell pepper, and the quartered mushrooms to the pan. Stir to coat the vegetables in the spiced tomato mixture.

  3. 8

    Simmer to finish cooking

    Pour in 1/2 cup water or vegetable stock, add 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste), and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook 6–8 minutes, stirring once or twice, until all vegetables are tender but still hold their shape. If you prefer a drier, stir-fried style, cook uncovered and reduce liquid until desired consistency is reached.

  4. 9

    Final seasoning

    Uncover, sprinkle 1/2 tsp garam masala over the vegetables and stir. Taste and adjust salt, chili or acidity. Stir in 1 tbs lime or lemon juice to brighten the sauce.

  5. 10

    Garnish and serve

    Turn off heat and sprinkle 2 tbs chopped fresh cilantro over the jalfrezi. Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or flatbread.