Published By: Soham Halder

Sabzi of the day - Three Cooking Styles, One Ingredient: Cauliflower's Winter Magic

Who knew this humble veggie could be the hero of your winter feasts?

Cauliflower, the versatile vegetable that reigns supreme in Indian kitchens, is not just a winter staple but also a nutritional powerhouse. It's the perfect ingredient to keep you warm, healthy, and satisfied this season. Whether you're in the mood for something hearty or light, cauliflower can transform into dishes that delight the palate and nourish the body.

The Nutritional Goldmine

Cauliflower is rich in fibre, vitamins C, K, and B6, potassium, and manganese. Its anti-inflammatory properties and high antioxidant content make it beneficial for heart health and immune support. Additionally, cauliflower is a great low-carb substitute for grains, making it popular in gluten-free and keto diets. Let's dive into some lip-smacking cauliflower recipes to enjoy this winter.

Gobi 65 Recipe

Cooking Time: 20 min

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower 
  • Plain flour (maida)
  • Rice flour
  • Corn flour
  • Ginger garlic paste
  • Yoghurt
  • Kashmiri chilli powder
  • Garam masala powder
  • Cooking soda
  • Lemon juice
  • Oil
  • Salt
  • Water

Recipe

  • Soak cauliflower florets in warm salted water for 5 minutes. Afterwards, drain, and set aside.
  • Now blanch in hot water with turmeric and salt for 5 minutes then drain again.
  • Mix flour, spices, and water to form a smooth batter.
  • Coat cauliflower florets in the batter.
  • Heat oil in a pan and fry the florets in batches until golden and crispy.
  • Fry curry leaves and green chillies for garnish.
  • Serve and enjoy Gobi 65 with onion rings and a sprinkle of chaat masala.

Credit: homecookingshow/@instagram

Stir Fry Cauliflower

Cooking Time: 25 min

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower 
  • Oil
  • Garlic cloves 
  • Onion
  • Curry leaves
  • Green chillies 
  • Tomato 
  • Chilli powder 
  • Turmeric powder
  • Garam masala
  • Salt
  • Cilantro

Instructions

  • First, heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic. Then, add onions, curry leaves, and green chillies. Cook until the onions are translucent.
  • Now stir in spices, cook for 1 minute, then add tomatoes. Cover and cook on low until the tomatoes soften and oil separates.
  • Add cauliflower florets, increase heat, and stir for 5 minutes until moisture evaporates.
  • Now add salt, lower heat, cover, and cook for 3-5 minutes.
  • Remove the lid and roast on low heat until desired crispiness is achieved.

Credit: Swasthi's Recipes/@YouTube

Aloo Gobi Palao

Cooking Time: 30 min

Ingredients

  • Basmati Rice
  • Potato
  • Cauliflower
  • Onion
  • Green chillies
  • Ginger
  • Red chilli powder
  • Turmeric powder
  • Cumin seeds
  • Cinnamon
  • Cloves
  • Star anise
  • Bay leaf
  • Water
  • Salt
  • Oil

Recipe

  • Soak basmati rice for 20-30 minutes. Peel and cube potatoes and soak them in water. Cut cauliflower into florets.
  • Slice onions and slit green chillies.
  • Start with heating oil, and then add cumin, cinnamon, bay leaf, star anise, and cloves. Sauté until fragrant.
  • Add onions, ginger, and chillies. Sauté until onions soften.
  • Drain rice, add it to the pan, sauté for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add potatoes, cauliflower, red chilli powder, turmeric, salt, and water. Stir.
  • Transfer to a rice cooker or pressure cooker and cook until done.
  • Let rest for 10 minutes, fluff rice.
  • Serve with raita and enjoy

Credit: happy__spoons/@instagram

Cauliflower proves that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious. Whether you're roasting it for a crispy bite or frying it for a savoury treat, these dishes will bring warmth and flavour to your winter meals.