Vegetable Masala
If you’re searching for a dish that bursts with flavor and is packed with wholesome goodness, look no further than Vegetable Masala. This vibrant and aromatic dish is a celebration of fresh vegetables combined with rich spices, making it a delightful option for any meal. With a balance of textures and a depth of flavor, Vegetable Masala is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing choice for your body.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Vegetable Masala is the kind of dish that appeals to everyone at the table. Its colorful medley of vegetables, combined with a creamy sauce and fragrant spices, creates a comforting yet exciting meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a casual dinner with friends, or a special occasion, Vegetable Masala is sure to impress. The versatility makes it an excellent choice for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, as it can easily be paired with rice, naan, or served as a side dish.
What Goes In
To create this delightful Vegetable Masala, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1-1/2 cups finely diced red onion (1 large onion)
- 1-1/2 cups thinly sliced carrots (4 large carrots)
- 1 cup diced red pepper (1 pepper)
- 3 cups diced baby gold potatoes (4 potatoes)
- 1 cup chopped cauliflower
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2-1/2 tablespoons finely minced garlic (5 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons finely minced ginger (peeled, 1-1/2 inch piece)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (I like fire-roasted)
- 1-2/3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen sweet peas
- 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro or parsley
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for cooking and simmering the Vegetable Masala.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and combining the ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: To prepare the vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring your ingredients.
- Serving dish: To present your beautifully cooked Vegetable Masala.
Directions: Vegetable Masala
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the melted coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely diced red onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, stir in the sliced carrots, diced red pepper, diced baby gold potatoes, and chopped cauliflower. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 3: Incorporate the Spices
Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, ground turmeric, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, ground cumin, ground cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to coat the vegetables in the spices and let them cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, followed by the vegetable broth. Add the teaspoon of sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Peas
Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and frozen sweet peas. Let the Vegetable Masala simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cream to blend in and the peas to heat through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve the Vegetable Masala warm in a serving dish, and enjoy with rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread.
Make It Year-Round
- Seasonal vegetables: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables available in your area. Zucchini in summer or butternut squash in the fall can add a delightful twist.
- Substitute proteins: For added heartiness, consider mixing in chickpeas or lentils for a protein boost.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify the spices to suit your taste preferences, making it milder or spicier as you wish.
Missteps & Fixes
If you find your Vegetable Masala is too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it seems too watery, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. If the flavors seem too flat, a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice can brighten it right up!
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Vegetable Masala is an excellent candidate for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to loosen it up.
Vegetable Masala Q&A
Can I make Vegetable Masala vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with additional coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
What can I serve with Vegetable Masala?
Vegetable Masala pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, quinoa, or warm naan bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or raita for a refreshing contrast.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the Vegetable Masala for up to 3 months.
Can I add meat to Vegetable Masala?
Yes, you can definitely add cooked chicken or shrimp to the Vegetable Masala to make it heartier. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time accordingly so the meat is heated through.
See You at the Table
As you sit down to enjoy your homemade Vegetable Masala, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and enticing aromas that fill the air. This dish not only nourishes the body but also brings people together around the table, sharing stories and laughter. There’s something special about a meal that is both comforting and full of flavor—it’s a reminder of the love and care put into cooking.
So gather your loved ones, serve up some hearty portions, and let the delightful taste of Vegetable Masala create memories that will last long after the last bite. Happy cooking!
Vegetable Masala
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the melted coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely diced red onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.
- Next, stir in the sliced carrots, diced red pepper, diced baby gold potatoes, and chopped cauliflower. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, ground turmeric, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, ground cumin, ground cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to coat the vegetables in the spices and let them cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas.
- Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, followed by the vegetable broth. Add the teaspoon of sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and frozen sweet peas. Let the Vegetable Masala simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cream to blend in and the peas to heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve the Vegetable Masala warm in a serving dish, and enjoy with rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread.
Notes
- Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables for a delightful twist.
- Consider adding chickpeas or lentils for a protein boost.
- Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
