Navratan Korma is a rich and indulgent Indian curry that combines a variety of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices. The name “Navratan” translates to “nine gems,” referring to the nine key ingredients that come together in this royal dish. Known for its creamy texture and delicate flavors, Navratan Korma is often prepared for special occasions and festive celebrations, making it a perfect choice when you want to treat yourself to something luxurious.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of making a delicious Navratan Korma at home, using nine flavorful ingredients that will transport you straight to the royal kitchens of India.
Ingredients:
- Mixed Vegetables (Carrot, Beans, Potato, Peas, etc.)
- Fruits (Pineapple, Apple, or Pomegranate – for a touch of sweetness)
- Nuts and Dry Fruits (Cashews, Almonds, Raisins, and Pistachios)
- Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
- Onions (For the base of the gravy)
- Tomatoes (For richness and balance)
- Cream or Cashew Paste (For the creamy texture)
- Spices (Cumin seeds, Cinnamon, Cloves, Cardamom, Turmeric, Coriander powder, Garam Masala, and Red chili powder)
- Ghee or Oil (For cooking and adding richness)
Preparation:
1. Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits: Begin by washing, peeling, and chopping the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. You can choose from vegetables like carrots, potatoes, peas, beans, and cauliflower. For fruits, pineapple or apple is commonly used, adding a sweet balance to the dish.
2. Soak Nuts and Dry Fruits: Soak the cashews, almonds, and pistachios in warm water for about 15-20 minutes. This will soften them and make it easier to grind them into a smooth paste. Soak the raisins separately in a small bowl of water.
3. Make the Onion-Tomato Gravy: In a pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add chopped tomatoes, and cook until they soften. This forms the base of your gravy.
4. Grind the Cashews and Almonds: Grind the soaked cashews, almonds, and pistachios into a smooth paste using a little water. This nut paste will give the Korma its signature creamy consistency.
5. Cook the Vegetables: In a separate pan, sauté the mixed vegetables in ghee or oil. You can cook them until they are tender but still retain their color and crunch. You can also steam the vegetables if you prefer.
6. Make the Korma Gravy: Once the onion-tomato base is ready, add the ground nut paste to it. Stir well and let it cook for a couple of minutes. Then, add the spices – cumin seeds, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir until the spices release their fragrance.
7. Add the Vegetables and Paneer: Now, add the cooked vegetables and cubed paneer to the gravy. Mix everything gently so that the vegetables are coated with the rich, creamy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add a bit of water or milk to reach the desired consistency.
8. Incorporate the Fruits and Nuts: Once the vegetables and paneer are combined with the gravy, add the soaked raisins, pineapple chunks, and any other fruits you’re using. These sweet elements bring a delightful contrast to the richness of the curry. Garnish the dish with some whole cashews, pistachios, and almonds for an extra touch of elegance.
9. Simmer and Finish: Allow the Navratan Korma to simmer on low heat for about 5-10 minutes. This helps all the flavors to meld together. Finally, add fresh cream to the curry and give it a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serving:
Navratan Korma is best served hot with a side of naan, paratha, or steamed basmati rice. Its rich, creamy texture and sweet-savory flavor make it a royal treat perfect for any celebration.
Tips for a Perfect Navratan Korma:
- Customize the vegetables: You can add other vegetables like cauliflower, peas, or even mushrooms, depending on what you like.
- Use fresh cream: For an extra creamy finish, use fresh cream or thick yogurt instead of regular cream.
- Balance the sweetness: The fruits and nuts add sweetness, but if you prefer a less sweet dish, adjust the quantity of fruits accordingly.
- Spices: Adjust the spice level according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or garam masala.
Conclusion:
Navratan Korma is a true gem in Indian cuisine, and with these simple steps, you can recreate this royal dish at home. It’s perfect for any special occasion or as a luxurious treat for yourself and your loved ones. The combination of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making each bite a royal experience!
