Alu Gobi Masala
A classic Indian dish, Aloo Gobi Masala, traditionally consists of potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi) cooked in a spiced tomato-based gravy. For a non-onion-garlic
version, focus on building flavor through fresh ginger, green chilies, and aromatic spices. Sauté the cauliflower and potatoes separately to achieve a slight crispness before incorporating them into the masala. Using a flavorful tomato base, combined with turmeric, coriander, and garam masala will provide the depth of flavor that replaces the missing onion and garlic. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving to enhance the visual appeal and freshness.
Palak Paneer Delight
Palak Paneer is a beloved Indian dish of spinach (palak) and paneer (Indian cheese) in a creamy gravy. Without onion and garlic, achieving the authentic taste relies on the natural sweetness of spinach and the richness of the paneer. Sauté the spinach until it wilts, then blend it into a smooth puree. The paneer is usually cut into cubes and lightly fried or sautéed. Spices such as cumin, coriander, and a touch of green chilies add warmth to the dish, and the creamy texture can be enhanced with cashew paste or coconut milk for richness. Fresh ginger and a squeeze of lemon juice help balance the flavors and lift the dish.
Matar Paneer Magic
Another popular dish, Matar Paneer, features paneer and green peas (matar) in a tomato-based gravy. To exclude onion and garlic, the preparation emphasizes the sweetness of the peas and paneer. Start by gently sautéing the paneer cubes and then setting them aside. In a pan, create a flavorful tomato base with ginger, green chilies, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Cook the peas until tender, then add the paneer to heat through. Cashew paste or cream adds to the richness of the gravy. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves to enhance the flavors and overall appeal of the dish.
Malai Kofta Comfort
Malai Kofta consists of deep-fried koftas (vegetable balls) in a rich, creamy gravy. For the onion and garlic-free version, prepare the koftas by mixing mashed potatoes, paneer, and other vegetables like carrots and cauliflower with spices and herbs. Deep fry or shallow fry the koftas until golden brown. The gravy's richness comes from cashew paste or coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Fresh ginger and green chilies create an extra flavor burst. Garnishing the dish with cream and coriander leaves elevates the experience.
Navratan Korma Feast
Navratan Korma, a celebratory dish, literally translates to 'nine gems,' representing the various vegetables and dried fruits used. To adapt this dish for onion-garlic restrictions, focus on fresh and seasonal vegetables, combined with paneer or tofu. Prepare a creamy sauce with cashew paste or coconut milk as a base, adding aromatic spices and a touch of sweetness from dried fruits such as raisins and cashews. The dish is infused with flavors from ginger, green chilies, and a mix of spices. The variety of textures and flavors makes this dish satisfying and complete.
Baingan Bharta Bliss
Baingan Bharta is a smoky eggplant dish. The smokiness is imparted by roasting the eggplant over an open flame. The pulp is then mashed and mixed with a mixture of tomatoes, ginger, green chilies, and various spices. The key to this dish is ensuring that the eggplant is completely roasted, providing a slightly charred flavor that is the foundation of the dish. The use of fresh ginger and green chilies provides the needed kick to the dish. Garnish the dish with coriander leaves to give a fresh taste and visual appeal.
Vegetable Jalfrezi Joy
Vegetable Jalfrezi is a vibrant dish consisting of various vegetables sautéed in a flavorful gravy. The onion-garlic-free version involves using a medley of fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, beans, and peas. Start by sautéing the vegetables to maintain some crispness. The gravy is made with tomatoes, ginger, green chilies, and a blend of spices. Using flavorful spices and a touch of lemon juice, the result is a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. The textures and flavors of each vegetable contribute to the overall taste.
Dum Aloo Delight
Dum Aloo is a slow-cooked potato dish, usually prepared in a creamy tomato gravy. Without onion and garlic, the recipe emphasizes the potatoes’ natural flavor and the spice blend. Baby potatoes are typically deep-fried or pan-fried until golden brown. Then, it is simmered in a spiced tomato gravy, thickened with cashew paste or cream. Incorporating ginger and green chilies can boost the flavour profile. A touch of garam masala adds warmth. This dish is typically served with rice or roti.
Chana Masala Choice
Chana Masala is a popular chickpea dish, which can be easily adapted to be onion-garlic free. Use the natural sweetness of tomatoes to form the base. Ginger and green chilies are key to provide flavor. Use a combination of spices such as coriander, cumin, and garam masala. Slow cooking the chickpeas in the tomato gravy with spices ensures that they absorb the flavours. A garnish of fresh coriander leaves will enhance the flavour and appearance.
Kofta Curry Creation
This dish consists of vegetable or paneer koftas in a flavorful gravy. The koftas are prepared by mixing mashed vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and cauliflower with paneer, spices, and herbs. Fry the koftas until golden brown. Prepare a rich tomato-based gravy, thickened with cashew paste or coconut milk. Add aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, and then incorporate the koftas. Fresh ginger and green chilies should be used to give the dish an extra flavor boost. Garnishing with cream and coriander leaves adds to the richness and appearance.
