Courgette Curry
Courgette Curry
5 from 14 votes
Delve into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine with the delightful courgette curry. Not your run-of-the-mill dish, this is an explosion of flavours and textures, sure to transport you on a culinary journey. This dish is a testament to the fusion of healthy and tasty in a plateful.
Courgette Curry

Imagine a warm, aromatic kitchen filled with the tantalizing scents of spices dancing in the air. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that brings together the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with the humble yet versatile courgette.

Welcome to the world of Courgette Curry, a delightful dish that promises to elevate your dining experience with its rich flavors and comforting warmth.

Originating from the heart of Indian kitchens, this curry has a history steeped in tradition and flavor. Its roots trace back to generations of home cooks who perfected the art of blending spices to create soul-satisfying meals.

Despite its exotic origins, this recipe is surprisingly accessible, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is a courgette? Well, fear not! Courgette, also known as zucchini in some parts of the world, is a versatile vegetable that adds a delightful crunch and freshness to any dish.

In this curry, the courgette’s mild flavor acts as the perfect canvas for the bold spices and aromatic herbs, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture.

Expert Tip: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or potatoes for extra texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Oil: Used to sauté the ingredients, it plays a crucial role in releasing the flavours and aroma of the spices. While the recipe suggests regular oil, you could consider using ghee or clarified butter for a richer flavour profile.

Garlic Cloves: The sharp, fragrant undertones of garlic add a depth of flavour that beautifully complements the other spices. In its absence, garlic powder or even asafoetida (hing) can be used for a similar pungent kick.

Cumin Seeds: The nutty, earthy flavour of cumin seeds is quintessential to Indian cuisine. They add a layer of complexity to the curry. If unavailable, ground cumin or caraway seeds can serve as substitutes.

Onions: Onions add sweetness and body to the curry. The longer you cook them, the sweeter they become, balancing the spice. If you want to avoid onions, leeks or shallots could make good alternatives.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes add tanginess and richness, creating a balanced and rounded flavour profile. Tomato puree or canned tomatoes can work if fresh tomatoes are not at hand.

Chilli Powder: This is where the heat comes from. Depending on how fiery you want your curry to be, you can adjust the quantity. For a milder spice, consider using paprika.

Salt: The universal flavour enhancer, it brings out the taste of all the other ingredients. In its absence, soy sauce or fish sauce can add a salty touch, albeit with a different flavour profile.

Turmeric Powder: It lends the curry a beautiful golden hue and a mild earthy flavour. In a pinch, you could use a small amount of saffron for colour, but it won’t contribute the same flavour as turmeric.

Courgettes: The star of the dish, courgettes lend a mild flavour and a lovely texture to the curry. If unavailable, you can use other squashes or even eggplant as an alternative.

Coriander: Coriander leaves add freshness and colour, enhancing the visual appeal and taste of the curry. In their absence, parsley can be used.

Expert Tip: Don’t rush the cooking process. Allowing the spices to cook slowly helps to develop their flavors fully.

Serving Suggestions

  • Rice Varieties: While basmati rice is a classic accompaniment to Courgette Curry, don’t hesitate to experiment with other rice varieties such as jasmine rice, brown rice, or even wild rice for added depth and texture.
  • Chapattis and Naan: In addition to homemade chapattis, consider serving the curry with fluffy naan bread, which is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce. Warm the naan slightly before serving for an extra touch of indulgence.
  • Side Salads: For a refreshing contrast to the warm and spicy curry, consider serving a simple side salad of mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Condiments and Chutneys: Elevate your dining experience by offering an array of condiments and chutneys alongside the curry. Tangy mango chutney, spicy lime pickle, or creamy yogurt raita can complement the flavors of the curry and add an extra dimension of taste.
  • Garnishes: Don’t forget to garnish your Courgette Curry with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander leaves or a drizzle of coconut milk for a touch of freshness and creaminess.

Expert Tip: For a deeper flavor, toast the cumin seeds in the hot oil until fragrant before adding the garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use zucchini instead of courgettes?

Yes, zucchini is the same as courgettes, so feel free to use them interchangeably in this recipe. Both vegetables offer a mild flavor and tender texture that work well in the curry.

How spicy is this curry?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your preference. Start with the recommended amount of chili powder and taste the curry as it cooks. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.

Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this curry often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Prepare the curry in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze leftover curry?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover curry for up to 3 months. Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw the curry overnight in the refrigerator or heat it directly from frozen on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

What can I serve with Courgette Curry besides rice or chapattis?

While rice and chapattis are traditional accompaniments, you can also get creative with your side dishes. Consider serving the curry with quinoa, couscous, or even mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. Additionally, roasted vegetables or grilled tofu make excellent vegan options to serve alongside the curry.

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Courgette Curry

Courgette Curry

by Nabeela Kauser
Delve into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine with the delightful courgette curry. Not your run-of-the-mill dish, this is an explosion of flavours and textures, sure to transport you on a culinary journey.
5 from 14 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 166 kcal

Ingredients

  • 50 ml Oil
  • 4 Garlic Cloves FInely chopped
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds Jeera
  • 1 Onions
  • 2 Tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Chilli Powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Powder Haldi
  • 700 g Courgettes
  • Coriander
  • 50 ml Water

Instructions

  • Heat up the oil on medium heat until hot
  • Add the cumin seeds and finely chopped garlic then sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant
  • Add the finely diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes on medium heat until softened and lightly browned
  • As the onions are cooking dice the tomatoes then add into pan and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened
  • Add the salt, chilli powder, and turmeric powder then cook the spices for 2-3 minutes before adding the water and cooking for a further 2-3 minutes – the water allows the spices to release their colour and prevents the spices from burning
  • As the spices are cooking peel and chop the courgettes into bite-sized chunks then mix into the spices before covering and cook for 15-20 minutes until soft
  • Add the finely chopped coriander then mix
  • Serve with homemade chapatti and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Nutritional facts:
The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 166kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.05gSodium: 610mgPotassium: 691mgFibre: 3gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 1085IUVitamin C: 43mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Cooking, Curry, Food, Healthy, Recipe, Vegan, Vegetables, Vegetarian
Tried this recipe?Mention @CookwithNabeela or tag #CookwithNabeela!

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Cook with Nabeela

Hi, I'm Nabeela!

I love to cook! I want to share with you my favourite, delicious family-friendly recipes. I want to inspire you to create fantastic food for your family every day.

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