Chili Mili is a vibrant and spicy Indian dish featuring a medley of mixed vegetables cooked in a zesty tomato-based gravy. This flavorful preparation combines assorted veggies with a fiery masala paste comprising tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies, resulting in a tantalizing blend of spicy, tangy flavors. Served hot and garnished with fresh coriander, it’s a colorful and wholesome accompaniment to bread or rice, celebrated for its robust taste and aromatic appeal in Indian cuisine.
Here’s a detailed recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Masala Paste:
- 2-3 tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oil
For the Chili Mili:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as cauliflower, carrots, bell peppers, peas, beans), chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Masala Paste:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add coriander seeds, cumin seeds, chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
- Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until tomatoes soften. Allow this mixture to cool and then blend it into a smooth paste.
- Cooking the Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and a bay leaf. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry them on medium-high heat for a few minutes until they’re partially cooked but still have a crunch.
- Making Chili Mili:
- Pour the prepared masala paste over the partially cooked vegetables. Mix well, ensuring the vegetables are coated with the masala.
- Add salt to taste and a pinch of garam masala for extra flavor. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Simmering:
- Cover the pan and let the vegetables simmer on low-medium heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are completely cooked and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once done, garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.
Chili Mili is a delightful dish packed with spicy flavors and the goodness of mixed vegetables, making it a wholesome and tasty addition to any meal. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference for a perfect balance of heat and flavor.
