Veg Diwani Handi Recipe


Veg Diwani Handi Recipe



25 mins
2-3 people
15 mins




Introduction:

 

Let me take you on a journey to the heart of India's culinary heritage with the enchanting Veg Diwani Handi. This dish holds a special place in my culinary repertoire, as it combines the vibrant flavors of various vegetables with rich and aromatic spices. I still remember the first time I discovered this recipe – it was during a family gathering where my grandmother unveiled her secret recipe for Veg Diwani Handi. As the fragrant aroma filled the air, I was transported to a world of culinary delight, savoring each bite of this wholesome and flavorful dish. Since then, Veg Diwani Handi has been a staple on our dinner table, bringing joy and warmth to every meal.

 

 

 

Diwani Handi

 

Ingredients:

 

For Secret Masala Blend:

  • 1 tbsp fennel seeds
  • ½ inch cinnamon stick
  • 4 green cardamoms
  • 1 mace
  • 6-8 black peppercorns
  • 4-5 cloves
  • 1 tbsp kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • ½ tbsp dry ginger powder
  • 1 piece mace

Other Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp oil
  • ¼ cup broken cashews
  • 2 tbsp whole cashews
  • 1 ½ cups sliced onion
  • 2 tbsp ghee
  • 2 bay leaves
  • ½ inch cinnamon stick
  • 2 maces
  • 4-5 green cardamoms
  • 2 black cardamoms
  • 6-7 cloves
  • 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • ½ cup curd
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • ½ tbsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp red chilli powder
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1 cup mushrooms
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • ⅓ cup green peas
  • 1 cup carrot, diced
  • ½ cup french beans, diced
  • 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
  • 2 tbsp fresh cream

 

 

Method:

 

Secret Masala Blend:

  1. In a mixer jar, combine fennel seeds, cinnamon, green cardamom, mace, black pepper, cloves, kasoori methi, dry ginger powder, and mace.
  2. Grind them into a fine powder. Set aside.

Diwani Handi:

  1. Heat oil in a pan. Fry broken cashews until light golden brown, then transfer to water. Repeat the same process with whole cashews and set aside.
  2. Blanch cauliflower florets, green peas, diced carrot, and french beans in hot water with salt. Transfer to cold water and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, fry sliced onions until light golden brown. Transfer to a mixer jar and make a paste with fried broken cashews. Set aside.
  4. In the same pan, heat ghee. Add bay leaves, cinnamon, mace, green cardamom, black cardamom, and cloves. Let them crackle.
  5. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté.
  6. Add yellow chili powder and fry for a minute.
  7. Add the onion-cashew paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Transfer this mixture to a handi (a wide, deep cooking pot).
  8. Add curd and cook until it releases oil.
  9. Add tomato puree and cook for 5-6 minutes.
  10. Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
  11. Add some hot water and stir. Then add the fried cashew nut paste.
  12. Add mushrooms and blanched vegetables. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  13. Finally, add the secret masala blend, chopped coriander leaves, and fresh cream. Mix well.
  14. Serve hot.

 

Enjoy the rich and flavorful Diwani Handi with rice or Indian bread of your choice!

 

 

 

About the Recipe:

 

Veg Diwani Handi is a traditional Indian dish that originates from the royal kitchens of India. It is a medley of assorted vegetables cooked in a rich and creamy gravy, flavored with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The name "Diwani Handi" translates to "royal pot," signifying the regal origins of this dish. It is often served as a main course during festive occasions and celebrations, adding a touch of opulence to the dining experience. Veg Diwani Handi is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of India's diverse culinary heritage, showcasing the abundance of flavors and ingredients found in traditional Indian cuisine.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

  1. Use a variety of vegetables: Opt for a colorful array of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, peas, and cauliflower to add texture and flavor to the dish.
  2. Prep the vegetables evenly: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and a pleasing presentation.
  3. Layer the flavors: Start by sautéing onions, ginger, and garlic until golden brown to create a flavorful base for the gravy. Add spices gradually, allowing them to bloom and release their aroma.
  4. Simmer gently: Once the vegetables are added to the gravy, simmer gently over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften without losing their texture.
  5. Finish with fresh herbs: Garnish Veg Diwani Handi with freshly chopped cilantro or mint leaves for a burst of freshness and color before serving.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Veg Diwani Handi pairs well with:

 

  • Fragrant basmati rice
  • Butter naan or roti
  • Jeera rice
  • Cucumber raita or mint chutney

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Veg Diwani Handi:

 

  1. What is Veg Diwani Handi? Veg Diwani Handi is a traditional Indian dish made with assorted vegetables cooked in a rich and creamy gravy, flavored with aromatic spices.

  2. What does "Diwani Handi" mean? "Diwani Handi" translates to "royal pot" in Hindi, symbolizing the royal origins of this dish.

  3. What vegetables can be used in Veg Diwani Handi? You can use a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, peas, cauliflower, and beans in Veg Diwani Handi.

  4. Is Veg Diwani Handi spicy? The level of spiciness in Veg Diwani Handi can be adjusted according to personal preference by controlling the amount of chili powder or green chilies used.

  5. Can Veg Diwani Handi be made ahead of time? Yes, Veg Diwani Handi can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors tend to develop even more if allowed to sit for a few hours or overnight.

  6. Is Veg Diwani Handi vegan? Veg Diwani Handi can be made vegan by substituting dairy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and using oil instead of ghee for cooking.

  7. What is the best way to store leftovers of Veg Diwani Handi? Store leftovers of Veg Diwani Handi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

  8. Can I customize the spices in Veg Diwani Handi? Yes, feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder, garam masala, or other spices to suit your palate.

  9. What makes Veg Diwani Handi different from other vegetable curries? Veg Diwani Handi is distinguished by its rich and creamy gravy, which is flavored with a blend of aromatic spices and simmered to perfection, resulting in a luxurious and indulgent dish.

  10. Can I add paneer or tofu to Veg Diwani Handi? Yes, you can add paneer or tofu to Veg Diwani Handi for added protein and texture. Simply cube the paneer or tofu and add it along with the vegetables during cooking.