How to Make Indian Style Vegetable Sauté (Sabzi)

Indian style vegetable sauté, commonly known as sabzi, is a delicious and healthy dish that can be enjoyed with roti, rice, or even on its own. This versatile dish can be made using various seasonal vegetables and is seasoned with aromatic spices, making it a favorite in many households. Here’s a simple guide on how to prepare this delightful dish at home.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, beans, peas, etc.)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2-3 green chilies, slit
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping your mixed vegetables into small, even-sized pieces. This ensures they cook uniformly. You can use any combination of vegetables you like, such as carrots, bell peppers, beans, cauliflower, and peas.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. This step releases the earthy aroma of the spices.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Spices

Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn translucent. Next, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute until the raw smell disappears. Then, incorporate the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to the mixture, stirring well to coat the onions and spices evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Now, it’s time to add your prepared mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir them well with the spice mixture, ensuring that each piece is coated. Cover the pan with a lid and let the vegetables cook for about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of water to help steam the vegetables.

Step 5: Finish with Garam Masala

After the vegetables are tender, sprinkle garam masala over the top and mix well. Cooking for an additional 2 minutes will enhance the flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from heat and garnish your vegetable sauté with freshly chopped coriander leaves. This adds both flavor and a vibrant touch to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Your Indian style vegetable sauté (sabzi) is now ready to be served! Pair it with warm roti, steamed basmati rice, or enjoy it as a nutritious standalone dish. You can also serve it with yogurt or pickle for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Sabzi

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of ghee towards the end.
If you like a bit of crunch, add some roasted peanuts or cashews before serving.

Try out this simple and satisfying Indian style vegetable sauté at home, and delight your family with a burst of flavors. Enjoy cooking!