Veg Handi Recipe: Veg Nizami Handi is a luxurious and creamy Indian curry that combines a variety of vegetables and spices. It boasts a rich and velvety texture, making it an ideal addition to any meal. While traditionally prepared with a combination of meat and vegetables in a Makhani sauce, this recipe offers a vegetarian twist.
What sets this dish apart is its unique combination of flavors and ingredients. It incorporates elements from popular Punjabi curries with its use of Makhani sauce, while also introducing spinach or palak into the onion and tomato gravy base—a departure from the norm. The medley of vegetables combined with the creamy gravy not only adds to its nutritional value but also makes it a favorite among mixed vegetable curry enthusiasts.
Here are some additional tips and variations for making Veg Nizami Handi:
- The choice of vegetables is flexible, allowing you to customize the dish according to your preferences. However, it’s essential to maintain a balance and avoid overcrowding the curry.
- Vegetables can be either boiled or fried before adding them to the gravy base. Boiling is a healthier option, but frying adds a richer flavor.
- For those who enjoy meat, the recipe can be adapted to include preferred meat choices. Incorporating meat would lend an authentic touch, especially in line with the traditional preparation in Hyderabad.
- Veg Nizami Handi offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish in Indian cuisine. Whether served as a main course or alongside other dishes, its creamy richness is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients: Veg Handi Recipe
For Makhani Gravy:
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 2 teaspoons oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cardamom pods
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 5 cloves
- 2 tomatoes, cubed
- ¼ cup cashews
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
For Boiling Vegetables:
- Water, for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 20 cauliflower florets
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 10 beans, chopped
- ½ cup peas
- 1 cup spinach (palak), chopped
For Nizami Curry:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 black cardamom pods
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
- 1 chili, slit
- 15 cubes of paneer
- ¼ cup cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- ¼ teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
Instructions: Veg Handi Recipe
- How to Make Restaurant-Style Makhani Gravy:
- Firstly, heat 1 teaspoon of butter and 2 teaspoons of oil in a pan.
- Add 1 bay leaf, 3 cardamom pods, 1-inch cinnamon stick, and 5 cloves. Sauté until the spices become aromatic.
- Now, add 2 cubed tomatoes, ¼ cup cashews, 2 cloves of garlic, 1-inch piece of ginger, ½ teaspoon chili powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Sauté for a minute or until the tomatoes shrink slightly.
- Further, add 1 cup of water, cover, and boil for 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are cooked well.
- Cool completely, and blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.
How to Boil Vegetables: Veg Handi Recipe
- Firstly, in a large vessel, bring hot water to a boil, add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 20 cauliflower florets and 1 chopped carrot, and boil for 2 minutes.
- Then, add 10 chopped beans, ½ cup of peas, and 1 cup of chopped spinach.
- Stir and bring to a boil. Do not overcook the vegetables as they will become mushy.
- Drain off the vegetables and set them aside. You can use the leftover water as vegetable stock for soup or to knead dough.
How to Make Nizami Curry: Veg Handi Recipe
- Firstly, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of ghee in a large kadai.
- Add 1 bay leaf, 2 black cardamom pods, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, and ½ teaspoon of carom seeds. Sauté until the spices become aromatic.
- Now, add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
- Further, add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, and ½ teaspoon of cumin powder. Sauté until the spices become aromatic.
- Add 1 chopped tomato and sauté until the tomato turns soft and mushy.
- Additionally, add the prepared makhani gravy and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir and cook until the oil separates from the gravy.
- Now, add the boiled vegetables and mix, coating them well with the gravy.
- Further, add 1 cup of water and 1 slit green chili. Mix well, adjusting the consistency as required.
- Also, add 15 cubes of paneer and ¼ cup of cream. Mix well, combining everything thoroughly.
- Cover and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the flavors are absorbed well.
- Finally, add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of crushed kasuri methi, ¼ teaspoon of garam masala, and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped coriander. Mix well.
- Enjoy Nizami Handi with roti or naan.
Conclusion:
Veg Handi Recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. With its creamy Makhani gravy and medley of vegetables, it’s sure to impress at any meal. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dinner or served at special gatherings, this dish is a testament to the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine.
FAQs about Veg Handi Recipe:
What makes Veg Nizami Handi unique?
Veg Nizami Handi stands out due to its luxurious and creamy texture, combining a variety of vegetables and spices. Its rich flavor profile and velvety consistency make it a standout dish in Indian cuisine.
Can I customize the choice of vegetables in this dish?
Yes, the recipe allows flexibility in choosing vegetables according to personal preferences. However, it’s essential to maintain a balance and avoid overcrowding the curry to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
What cooking methods can I use for the vegetables?
Vegetables can be either boiled or fried before adding them to the gravy base. While boiling is a healthier option, frying adds a richer flavor to the dish.
Can I include meat in this recipe?
Yes, for those who enjoy meat, the recipe can be adapted to include preferred meat choices. Incorporating meat would lend an authentic touch, especially in line with the traditional preparation in Hyderabad.
What is the best way to serve Veg Nizami Handi?
Veg Nizami Handi pairs well with roti or naan, making it a satisfying main course. Its creamy richness also complements other Indian bread like paratha or even steamed rice.
