bohemianwanderer – This vibrant Indian-style pumpkin sabzi combines earthy spices, tangy mango powder, and a hint of sweetness for a comforting vegetarian meal. With just 10 minutes of prep and a 30-minute cook time, it’s an easy, flavorful dish ideal for busy weeknights or festive occasions.
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Start by coarsely crushing mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and fennel seeds using a mortar and pestle. Set the crushed spices aside. In a large frying pan or kadhai, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the crushed seeds and a pinch of asafoetida. Let them sizzle for a few seconds to release their aromas.
Add freshly chopped ginger to the pan and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the diced squash or pumpkin pieces, along with the mild chilli powder and ground turmeric. Stir-fry the mixture for around five minutes, ensuring the spices coat the squash evenly.
Next, pour 50 millilitres of water into the pan and season with salt according to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the pan, lower the heat, and let the squash simmer for 20 minutes. Stir the contents halfway through to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
Add the Finishing Touches for a Perfect Balance of Sweet, Spicy, and Tangy
Once the squash becomes tender, add jaggery or dark brown sugar to the pan. Crush the jaggery slightly with a spoon so it melts evenly into the sauce. Stir well until the sweetness balances the dish’s spicy notes.
Then, add the dried mango powder (amchur), which introduces a tangy finish that brightens the dish’s overall flavor. Mix thoroughly so that the sweet, sour, and spicy elements come together in a well-balanced blend.
This pumpkin sabzi pairs beautifully with warm chapatis or fluffy naan, making it a satisfying and complete vegetarian meal. Its unique combination of warming spices and contrasting flavors makes it an excellent addition to autumn menus or Diwali spreads.
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The recipe is also highly adaptable. You can substitute the squash with sweet potato, carrots, or other seasonal root vegetables. For extra richness, drizzle a touch of ghee before serving, or garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
With its bold yet balanced flavors, this dish reflects the depth and diversity of Indian home cooking. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned home cook, this sweet and tangy sabzi delivers comfort and complexity in every bite. Serve it warm and enjoy a nourishing, flavor-packed meal that’s both simple and memorable.
