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Indian-Inspired Curried Cauliflower and Peas (Sabzi) – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Indian-Inspired Curried Cauliflower and Peas (Sabzi)

This classic Indian-inspired vegetable dish, often called a 'sabzi', coaxes out the wonderfully nutty, sweet flavor of cauliflower with a simple blend of warm, aromatic spices. The vibrant yellow from the turmeric and the earthy depth of cumin create a truly comforting and delici
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower, approx. 2 lbs / 900g (31.7 oz)
  • 6 tablespoons (90 g / 3.17 oz) Ghee or butter
  • 1 ½ teaspoons / 3g (0.11 oz) ground turmeric
  • 1 ½ teaspoons / 3g (0.11 oz) ground cumin
  • 1 ½ teaspoons / 3g (0.11 oz) cumin seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon (0.5 g / 0.02 oz) cayenne pepper, or to taste
  • 1 ½ cups / 225g (7.9 oz) fresh or frozen peas
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.5 g / 0.05 oz) salt, or to taste
  • For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cumin seeds in the dry pan for 30 seconds before adding the ghee and other spices.
  • Feel free to add a finely chopped onion or a teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste with the spices for more aromatic depth.
  • This dish is excellent for meal prep. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully on the stovetop with a small splash of water.

Method
 

  1. Prep the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and chop it into small, bite-sized florets for even cooking.
  2. Bloom the Spices: In a large skillet or pan, melt the ghee or butter over medium-low heat.
  3. Add the turmeric, ground cumin, cumin seeds, and cayenne pepper.
  4. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until the spices become incredibly fragrant. This step is key to unlocking their full flavor.
  5. Cook the Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet and toss well to coat them completely in the spiced ghee.
  6. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) of water, cover the pan, and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cauliflower should be almost tender. If you are using fresh peas, add them about 7 minutes into this step.
  7. Finish the Dish: If using frozen peas, add them now along with the salt.
  8. Stir everything together and continue to cook, uncovered, for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until both the cauliflower and peas are perfectly tender.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving warm.
  10. Don't overcook the cauliflower! Aim for fork-tender with a slight bite to avoid it becoming mushy.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 7gFat: 22g

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