Bangladeshi Mixed Vegetable Bhaji
A simple yet flavorful stir-fried mixed vegetable dish, commonly prepared in Bangladeshi households. It features a medley of seasonal vegetables sautéed with garlic, ginger, green chilies, and a touch of turmeric for color and flavor. This is a healthy and versatile side dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Mixed vegetables (e.g., cauliflower florets, green beans, carrots, potatoes, peas)
- 1 medium Onion, thinly sliced
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch piece Ginger, finely chopped
- 2 Green chilies, slit
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.5 tsp Nigella seeds (kalonji)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. If using potatoes or cauliflower, you can lightly parboil them for 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly.
💡 Tip: Cutting vegetables into uniform sizes ensures even cooking. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add the nigella seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
💡 Tip: Nigella seeds add a unique pungent flavor to the dish. - 3
Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
💡 Tip: Don't brown the onions too much, as this is a light stir-fry. - 4
Add the minced garlic, chopped ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for about a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
💡 Tip: Sautéing aromatics briefly releases their fragrance. - 5
Add the mixed vegetables to the pan. Sprinkle with turmeric powder and salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
💡 Tip: Turmeric adds a lovely golden hue and subtle earthy flavor. - 6
Cover the pan and cook on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).
💡 Tip: Covering helps the vegetables steam and cook through without becoming mushy. - 7
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, uncover the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let any excess moisture evaporate.
💡 Tip: This step ensures the bhaji isn't watery. - 8
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot.
💡 Tip: This dish pairs well with rice, roti, or paratha.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
- ✓For a spicier version, add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili flakes.
- ✓Ensure not to overcook the vegetables; they should retain some crispness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of dried shrimp (chingri shutki) for an umami boost.
- A pinch of cumin powder can be added along with turmeric for extra flavor.
- Some variations include a small amount of mustard paste for a pungent kick.