Broccoli is Indians latest obsession. Indians have taken this humble vegetable and transformed it into a culinary sensation. From the streets of Mumbai to the kitchens of Delhi, Indians are not afraid to experiment with flavours and spices when it comes to broccoli.
This cruciferous veggie has found its way into some mouthwatering Indian dishes that will leave you craving for more. Let’s talk about it.
Broccoli Paratha - Broccoli Paratha is not your typical paratha - it's a delightful twist on this traditional Indian bread that will satisfy both your taste buds and your health-conscious mind.
To make these delectable delights, finely chopped broccoli florets are sautéed with aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. This mixture is then stuffed inside whole wheat dough and rolled out into thin circles before being cooked on a hot griddle. The result? A golden-brown paratha bursting with the flavours of tender broccoli and fragrant spices.
Broccoli Upma - Upma, a popular South Indian breakfast dish made with semolina or rice flour, gets an interesting twist when broccoli is added to the mix. This nutritious and flavourful variation of upma brings together the goodness of this superfood with traditional flavours.
To make broccoli upma, start by sautéing mustard seeds and curry leaves in hot oil. Then add finely chopped onions, green chilies, and ginger. Next comes the star ingredient - broccoli florets. These vibrant green florets not only add colour but also bring their unique taste to the dish.
The addition of roasted semolina adds texture to the upma while enhancing its nutritional value. For added crunch, you can throw in some cashews or peanuts. Seasoned with salt and turmeric powder, this dish is cooked until fragrant and fluffy. Serve your piping hot broccoli upma with a side of coconut chutney or pickle for a complete meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Broccoli malai kofta - Broccoli malai kofta is a delightful twist to the traditional Indian dish. The creamy texture of the malai perfectly complements the subtle flavours of broccoli, creating a mouthwatering combination that is sure to please your taste buds.
To make this delectable dish, start by blanching the broccoli florets until they are tender yet crisp. Then, finely chop them and mix them with mashed potatoes, grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and a blend of spices like garam masala and cumin powder.
Shape this mixture into small balls and deep fry them until golden brown. While they sizzle in hot oil, prepare a luscious gravy made from cashew paste, cream, tomato puree, ginger-garlic paste, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and cardamom.
Once the koftas are cooked to perfection and the gravy has thickened slightly, gently drop the koftas into it. Allow them to simmer for a few minutes so they can soak up all those rich flavours.
Broccoli samosa - Broccoli samosa is a unique twist on the traditional Indian snack that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden pastry filled with a flavourful mixture of broccoli, spices, and potatoes. It's like having the best of both worlds - the health benefits of broccoli combined with the indulgence of a samosa.
The beauty of broccoli samosa lies in its versatility. You can enjoy it as an appetizer or even as a main course with some chutney or yogurt on the side. The combination of crunchy exterior and soft, savoury filling makes every bite satisfying and delightful.
To make broccoli samosas at home, start by preparing the dough for the outer covering using flour, salt, and oil. Roll out small circles and fill them with a mixture made from mashed boiled potatoes, cooked broccoli florets, onions, ginger-garlic paste, and aromatic spices like cumin powder and garam masala.
Next time you're craving something different yet deliciously familiar, give these dishes a try. They are sure to impress your friends at parties or become your go-to snack when you want to indulge in some tasty experimentation!
