Vegetable Jalfrezi Recipe
Seasonal vegetables | mushrooms | spiced tomato
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Ingredients
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Vegetable Prep
Spices & Aromatics
Tomato Base & Finish
Method
Vegetable Prep
- 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
Spices & Aromatics
- 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.
- 4
- 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
- 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.
- 7
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
