Gujarati Kadhi, a cornerstone of Gujarati cuisine, is beloved for its delicate balance of flavors. This sweet and tangy yogurt-based curry, thickened with gram flour and infused with aromatic spices, is a testament to the sophisticated simplicity of Indian cooking. The light, comforting nature of Kadhi makes it a versatile dish that warms the soul and brings a sense of nostalgia to those familiar with its flavors. Its creamy texture, combined with the subtle kick of spices, creates a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate, while its inviting aroma and appealing golden color promise a culinary journey to the heart of Gujarat.
Ingredients
Serving Size
From Your Pantry
- 1 cup yogurt, well-beaten
- 2 tablespoons gram flour (Besan)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 2 dried red chilies
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- Salt, to taste
Additional Grocery Items Needed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 cups water
- A pinch of asafoetida (Hing)
Preparation
- Create the Base: In a large bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Gradually add the gram flour, turmeric powder, and water, stirring continuously to ensure a lump-free mixture.
- Cook the Kadhi: Transfer the mixture to a deep pan and cook over medium heat. Keep stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once it comes to a boil, lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the Kadhi thickens slightly. Stir in the sugar and salt to taste.
- Prepare the Tadka: In a small pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, dried red chilies, slit green chilies, grated ginger, and a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté until the seeds start to splutter and the mixture becomes aromatic.
- Combine: Pour the tadka over the simmering Kadhi. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve warm with steamed rice or flatbread.
Expert Tips
- For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of ghee directly to the Kadhi while it's cooking.
- Be sure to whisk the yogurt and gram flour mixture well to ensure a smooth consistency without any lumps.
- Adjust the green chilies according to your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
This reimagined Gujarati Kadhi pairs beautifully with aromatic basmati rice or fluffy naan bread. For a complete meal, accompany it with a side of crunchy poppadoms, a tangy mango pickle, and a refreshing cucumber salad. The creamy and comforting nature of Kadhi makes it perfect for soothing the soul on a chilly evening or bringing a touch of warmth to any gathering.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Allergens: Dairy, Mustard
We hope this reimagined Gujarati Kadhi recipe inspires you to explore the depths of Indian cuisine and add your own twist to traditional dishes. Cooking is an art, and every dish tells a story. We encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones and experiment with different ingredients to make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking!