How to cook sabzis without onion and tomato under budget?

Question

How do you cook sabzis without onion and tomato on a budget? Get recipes for flavorful vegetable dishes using alternative bases.

Answer 1

Cook sabzis without onion and tomato by using alternative base flavors like ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, nuts, or seeds, and budget-friendly vegetables like potatoes, cabbage, and seasonal greens. Adjust spices and cooking techniques to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.

Detailed Explanation:

Cooking sabzis without onion and tomato, while staying within a budget, requires a bit of creativity and understanding of flavor profiles. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose Budget-Friendly Vegetables: Opt for seasonal vegetables that are locally available and cheaper. Potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, and other leafy greens are often economical choices.
2. Create a Flavorful Base: Since you're omitting onion and tomato, you need an alternative base. Consider these options:
   • Ginger-Garlic Paste: Sauté ginger-garlic paste in oil until fragrant. This forms a strong aromatic base.
   • Yogurt: Whisk yogurt until smooth and add it to the pan after the spices have been sautéed. Cook on low heat to prevent curdling. This adds a tangy and creamy element.
   • Nuts and Seeds: Cashews, almonds, or sesame seeds can be ground into a paste and added to the sabzi for richness and body. Roast them lightly before grinding for enhanced flavor.
   • Coconut Milk: Adds a creamy and slightly sweet flavor. A little goes a long way.
3. Spice it Up: Use a variety of spices to build flavor. Turmeric, cumin, coriander, red chili powder, garam masala, and amchur (dried mango powder) are excellent choices. Sauté the spices in oil before adding the vegetables to release their aroma.
4. Cooking Techniques: Different cooking methods can enhance the flavor of vegetables. Roasting, stir-frying, and steaming are all good options. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables.
5. Add Acidity: Since you're not using tomatoes, add a touch of acidity with lemon juice, amchur powder, or tamarind paste to balance the flavors.
6. Garnish: Fresh coriander leaves or a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder can add a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Pro Tip:

To save money, buy whole spices and grind them yourself. They retain their flavor longer and are often cheaper than pre-ground spices. Store them in airtight containers away from heat and light.