Aromatic Pakistani Zucchini Curry
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Aromatic Pakistani Zucchini Curry, a delightful vegetarian dish that showcases humble courgettes in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This curry is seasoned with an array of spices including cumin, coriander, and a hint of heat from red chili powder. The addition of fresh lemon juice and garam masala at the end enhances its aroma and depth, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. For those who crave a heartier version, feel free to incorporate your choice of meat; just sauté it alongside the onions before adding the remaining ingredients. Serve this dish warm alongside naan, roti, or chapati for a comforting lunch or snack.
2-3
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
courgettes
2 (peeled & chopped)
onion
1 medium (sliced)
oil
1/4 cup (for frying)
tomato
1 small (chopped)
ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon (prepared)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon (for spice)
coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon (for flavor)
turmeric powder
1/4 teaspoon (for color)
ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon (for aroma)
garam masala powder
1/2 teaspoon (for finishing)
green chili
1 (cut the tail)
lemon juice
3 drops (freshly squeezed)
Instructions
1
In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and sauté them until they turn a rich dark brown color, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
2
Next, incorporate the chopped tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, salt, red chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric into the pan. Cook while stirring until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture, about 5-7 minutes.
3
Add the peeled and chopped courgettes to the pan. Stir well to coat the courgettes with the spice mixture. Cover the pan and let it cook for 20 minutes on low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4
After the courgettes have become tender, add the garam masala powder and ground cumin. Stir to combine, cover the pan again, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5
To finish, add the green chili and a few drops of lemon juice, stirring gently. Allow the curry to simmer for 2 more minutes before removing it from the heat.
6
Serve the Aromatic Pakistani Zucchini Curry warm with freshly made naan, roti, or chapati for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aromatic Pakistani Zucchini Curry?
It is a flavorful vegetarian dish that features courgettes cooked in a tomato-based sauce with traditional Pakistani spices.
Is this zucchini curry recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the base recipe is completely vegetarian, though meat can be added if desired.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 2 to 3 servings.
What are the main spices used in this curry?
The main spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala.
How should the zucchini be prepared?
The two courgettes should be peeled and chopped before being added to the pan.
Can I add meat to this Pakistani Zucchini Curry?
Yes, you can incorporate your choice of meat by saut9ing it alongside the onions before adding the other ingredients.
How long does it take to cook the zucchini?
The zucchini should be covered and cooked for about 20 minutes on low-medium heat until tender.
What color should the onions be when saut9ed?
The onions should be saut9ed until they reach a rich dark brown color.
When do I add the garam masala and cumin?
Add the garam masala powder and ground cumin after the zucchini has become tender.
What is the purpose of adding lemon juice at the end?
A few drops of lemon juice are added at the end to enhance the aroma and depth of the curry.
What should I serve with this curry?
This dish is best served warm alongside naan, roti, or chapati.
How much oil is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of oil for frying the onions.
How many ingredients are in this zucchini curry?
There are 13 total ingredients used in this aromatic recipe.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe requires one small chopped tomato for the sauce base.
How do I prepare the green chili?
The tail of the green chili should be cut off before it is added to the simmer.
How much ginger-garlic paste is required?
You will need 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch?
Yes, it is described as a comforting option for a satisfying lunch or snack.
What is the heat level of this curry?
It has a hint of heat from 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder and one green chili.
How do I know the tomato base is ready?
The mixture is ready when the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the spices, usually taking 5-7 minutes.
What is the specific preparation for the onion?
One medium onion should be sliced before being saut9ed.
Can I use unpeeled zucchini?
The recipe specifically recommends using peeled courgettes for the best texture.
What is the function of turmeric in this dish?
1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder is used primarily to provide a vibrant color to the curry.
How much salt should be added?
The recipe suggests 1 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust to taste.
Why is coriander powder used?
1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder is added to provide a distinct flavor to the sauce.
How long does the curry simmer after adding finishing touches?
After adding lemon juice and green chili, allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
Does the recipe require stirring during the 20-minute cook time?
Yes, you should stir occasionally to prevent the zucchini from sticking to the pan.
What is the purpose of ground cumin in the final steps?
Ground cumin is added near the end to provide a fresh aromatic finish to the dish.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as a comforting vegetarian meal.
How much red chili powder is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder for spice.
Can this be served as a side dish?
Yes, while satisfying on its own, it also makes a perfect side dish for any meal.