Chorchori
Mixed Vegetable Curry
Chorchori is a quintessential Bengali mixed vegetable dish, known for its dry, semi-dry, or gravy-like consistency and a delightful blend of spices. This version focuses on a medley of seasonal vegetables, creating a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Mixed seasonal vegetables(e.g., potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, beans, eggplant, pumpkin, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Ginger paste
- 1 tbsp Garlic paste
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Red chili powder(or to taste)
- 2-3 pieces Green chilies(slit lengthwise)
- 3 tbsp Mustard oil
- 1 tsp Nigella seeds (Kalonji)
- to taste Salt
- 0.25 cup Water(optional, for a slightly saucier consistency)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or wok over medium heat. Add nigella seeds and let them splutter.
- 2
Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add ginger paste and garlic paste, and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- 4
Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for 30 seconds.
- 5
Add the mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir to coat them evenly with the spice mixture. If using, add the quarter cup of water now.
- 6
Cover the pan and cook on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. This will take about 20-25 minutes. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of water.
- 7
Add the slit green chilies during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- 8
Once the vegetables are cooked and the mixture has reached your desired consistency (dry or semi-dry), turn off the heat.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a variety of seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
- ✓Mustard oil is traditional and adds a distinct flavor; do not substitute if possible.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.
- ✓Ensure vegetables are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of panch phoron (Bengali five-spice mix) along with nigella seeds for a more complex flavor.
- For a slightly sweet note, add a teaspoon of sugar.
- Some variations include a small amount of dried shrimp or fish for added umami.