In every household, there are times when the fridge is almost empty, and you’re left wondering what to cook. But worry not, because there’s a simple and delicious solution that requires minimal ingredients—Pyaj Ki Sabji (Onion Curry). It’s a perfect dish for those days when you have no vegetables in the house except onions, yet still crave something spicy and flavorful. This simple onion curry will surprise you with its richness and taste.
What is Pyaj Ki Sabji?
Pyaj Ki Sabji is a traditional Indian dish made primarily with onions, which are a staple in every kitchen. The dish is known for its quick preparation and the bold flavors created by the combination of onions and spices. The onions cook down to form a thick, aromatic curry, and the various spices used add a fiery kick that’s perfect for pairing with roti, paratha, or rice.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 medium-sized onions, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil works well)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnishing
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing), optional
Instructions:
- Preparation: Start by peeling and finely slicing the onions. This will allow them to cook faster and become soft, which is key to creating the curry’s texture.
- Cooking the Onions: Heat oil in a pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. If you’re using asafoetida, add a pinch of it now for extra flavor.
- Sautéing: Add the sliced onions to the pan and sauté them until they become translucent and slightly golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.
- Spices: Once the onions are cooked, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well, allowing the spices to blend with the onions. You can adjust the amount of chili powder depending on your spice preference.
- Simmering: Let the onions cook with the spices for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you like a little gravy, you can add a splash of water to form a thicker or thinner curry, based on your preference.
- Final Touches: Sprinkle garam masala over the dish and give it one last stir. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and fragrance.
- Serve: Serve the Pyaj Ki Sabji hot with chapati, paratha, or steamed rice. The simplicity of this dish makes it both satisfying and comforting.
Why Pyaj Ki Sabji is Amazing
Despite being made with just onions and spices, Pyaj Ki Sabji offers a depth of flavor that’s both hearty and satisfying. The caramelized onions provide a natural sweetness, while the spices bring a spicy kick. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility: you can adjust the spices to suit your taste, and it can be made as spicy or mild as you want.
Additionally, this dish is vegan and gluten-free, making it an inclusive option for various dietary needs.
Tips for Perfecting Pyaj Ki Sabji
- Slow Cook the Onions: Don’t rush the process. Allowing the onions to cook slowly helps bring out their natural sweetness and enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Customize the Spice Level: Feel free to add green chilies for extra heat or reduce the red chili powder for a milder dish.
- Add Tomatoes (Optional): While not traditional, you can add a chopped tomato to the curry to give it a tangy flavor and make the dish richer.
- Pair with a Protein: If you have any leftover dal (lentils) or beans, adding them to this dish can turn it into a complete meal with protein.
Conclusion
Pyaj Ki Sabji is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something incredibly delicious. It’s a comforting dish that proves you don’t need a fridge full of vegetables to make a flavorful and satisfying meal. So, next time you’re in a pinch and only have onions in your kitchen, give this easy recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how a humble onion can turn into a spicy, irresistible curry!
