Jaipur Vegetables – The Wanderlust Kitchen

Let Jaipur Vegetables whisk you away to a world of rich flavors and textures. Every spoonful of tender vegetables drenched in a silky cashew sauce is a celebration of India’s bountiful harvest.

As I mentioned in the winter vegetable ramen post, I went through a bit of an Asian and Indian food kick prior to leaving for my big trip this year. I am a complete freak for variety, and it pained me to think that there was the slightest possibility that I might have a hard time finding Indian food during my trip.

After I shared my version of Tasty Bite Madras Lentils, I decided that it was time to tackle the Jaipur Vegetables. Now, there were a few things listed in the Tasty Bite ingredients that made me shrug my shoulders (watermelon seeds?). I made my own version, and while it doesn’t taste exactly the same, I prefer it to the pouches, and I think you will, too.

A large pan with a medley of vegetables and a wooden spoon.

What is Jaipur Vegetables

“Jaipur Vegetables” celebrates the historic Pink City of Jaipur in Rajasthan, North India. This dish, not tied to a specific traditional recipe, combines a colorful vegetable medley with spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander.

The inclusion of cashew nuts and coconut cream adds creaminess, embodying the luxurious vegetarian fare of the region. The name reflects its origin. It also showcases Jaipur’s culinary tradition of flavorful and hearty vegetarian dishes.

Tasty Bite Jaipur Vegetables vs. My Copycat Jaipur Vegetables

Tasty Bite is a convenient, ready-to-eat option for those craving the delicious flavors of Indian curries, sauces, and stews without the time commitment. Simply tear pouch, pour contents into a dish, and microwave for a quick meal – no preservatives and no artificial colors. Ideal for busy lifestyles, this packet offers a blend of spices and vegetables in a rich sauce.

But to those who love cooking and prefer homemade meals, my version will allow you to control the ingredients, by selecting fresh vegetables and blending your own spices. While it requires more effort than tearing open a packet, the satisfaction of a homemade meal can make it all worthwhile.

Reasons to Love These Jaipur Vegetables

The mix of spices and fresh vegetables creates a taste that’s both rich and satisfying.
Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this dish is a guilt-free pleasure.
Jaipur Vegetables is a versatile meal choice. You can enjoy it as a satisfying lunch, a hearty dinner experience, or serve it as a side dish at a special dinner occasion.

Recipe Ingredients

Raw Cashews: The cashews create a rich, creamy base for the sauce, adding a mild, nutty flavor.
Ginger Root: Adds a sharp, peppery warmth and provides a distinct zing.
Ground Turmeric: Imparts a vibrant golden color and a bitter, earthy taste.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Variations

Coconut Oil Variation: For cooking, sunflower oil or olive oil can replace coconut oil, providing a neutral or slightly fruity flavor to the sautéed vegetables.
Cream Variation: For a twist on Jaipur Vegetables, consider using Greek yogurt as an alternative to coconut cream, adding richness and a hint of tang.
Creamy Jaipur Vegetables: For a delightful twist on the classic recipe, consider incorporating creamy paneer cheese or pasteurized milk curd into your Copycat Jaipur Vegetables. Adding chunks of creamy paneer cheese or milk curds introduces a soft, mild, and luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.

How to Make Jaipur Vegetables

Step #1: Toast the raw cashews in a large pan set over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, until lightly browned. Transfer half the cashews to the bowl of a food processor. Roughly chop the remaining half cup of toasted cashews and set aside for garnish.

Step #2: Add the ginger, garlic, jalapeno, paprika, cumin seeds, coriander, cardamom, and cinnamon to the food processor. Grind into a coarse paste, adding a tablespoon or two of water if necessary to blend. Set aside.

Step #3: Heat two tablespoons of coconut oil in a large pan set over medium heat. Add the potato and cauliflower; cook for 4 minutes, until lightly browned and softened. Add the green beans and onions; cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the onions turn slightly translucent. Add the frozen peas and carrots, diced tomato, prepared ground spice mixture, turmeric, and generous pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until fragrant.

Step #4: Pour the tomato sauce into the pan, then refill the can with water and add it to the pan (8 ounces or 1 cup). Stir in the raisins and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the raisins are plump.

Step #5: Stir in the coconut cream and simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the dish has thickened to your liking. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with cilantro and reserved cashews. Serve hot, with basmati rice, naan bread, or flatbread.

Jaipur Vegetables in a pot, garnished with crushed cashews and a sprig of cilantro.

Expert Tip

If you’re looking for a smoother sauce, soak the raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes before blending. This will make them softer and easier to process into a creamy paste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What vegetables can I add to my Jaipur Vegetables recipe?

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on availability or preference. Options like sweet potatoes, french beans, bell peppers, green peas, zucchini, or spinach can be excellent additions.

Can I adjust the variety of spices in my Jaipur Vegetables recipe?

Yes, you’re free to modify the spice mix, chili pepper powder, and chili peppers according to your desired heat level. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the chili components. Conversely, for a spicier version, increase the amount of chili pepper powder or add more fresh chillies.

Storage Info

Store the unused portion of Jaipur Vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 4 days. To freeze it, you can store it in your freezer for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat on the stovetop, warm it gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a little water or coconut milk to adjust the consistency if needed. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a suitable container.

More Cashew Recipes That You’ll Love

Print Recipe

For the Jaipur Vegetables

Toast the raw cashews in a large pan set over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, until lightly browned. Transfer half the cashews to the bowl of a food processor. Roughly chop the remaining half cup of toasted cashews and set aside for garnish.
Add the ginger, garlic, jalapeno, paprika, cumin seeds, coriander, cardamom, and cinnamon to the food processor. Grind into a coarse paste, adding a tablespoon or two of water if necessary to blend. Set aside.
Heat two tablespoons of coconut oil in a large pan set over medium heat. Add the potato and cauliflower; cook for 4 minutes, until lightly browned and softened. Add the green beans and onions; cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the onions turn slightly translucent. Add the frozen peas and carrots, diced tomato, prepared ground spice mixture, turmeric, and generous pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until fragrant.
Pour the tomato sauce into the pan, then refill the can with water and add it to the pan (8 ounces or 1 cup). Stir in the raisins and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the raisins are plump.
Stir in the coconut cream and simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the dish has thickened to your liking. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with cilantro and reserved cashews. Serve hot, with basmati rice, naan bread, or flatbread.

*Turmeric has the tendency to stain, which is why I recommend not adding it to your plastic food processor bowl. You may also want to consider using a dark-colored utensil rather than a wooden spoon when making this dish. *When preparing or consuming Jaipur Vegetables, be mindful of common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, soy, and wheat. It’s crucial to read labels carefully, especially for store-bought ingredients or variations. Store the unused portion of Jaipur Vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 4 days. To freeze it, you can store it in your freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat on the stovetop, warm it gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a little water or coconut milk to adjust the consistency if needed. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a suitable container.