Cauliflower Dhansak is a delicious and aromatic Indian dish that combines the flavors of lentils, vegetables, and spices. Here’s a detailed recipe for you:
Ingredients:
For the Dhansak Paste:
- 2 onions, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1-inch piece of ginger, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
- Salt to taste
For the Dhansak:
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Dhansak Paste:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add chopped garlic and ginger. Cook for another couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until they soften and break down.
- Once the tomatoes are soft, add ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes until the spices are fragrant.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool down for a bit.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.
Cooking the Dhansak:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the Dhansak paste to the pot and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the cauliflower florets and chopped vegetables to the pot. Stir to coat them with the spice mixture.
- Add rinsed red lentils to the pot. Pour in vegetable broth or water, enough to cover the vegetables and lentils.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Check the seasoning and adjust salt and spices according to your taste.
- Once done, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
- Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Dhansak!
