Bring bold and vibrant flavors to your table with this Spicy Carrot and Zucchini Bhaji, a wholesome Indian-inspired vegetable stir-fry that's equal parts nourishing and satisfying. Packed with grated carrots and zucchini, aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, and a zesty finish of fresh cilantro and lemon juice, this dish is a symphony of spice and freshness. Perfect as a side dish alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, or as a light vegetarian meal on its own, this bhaji is quick to make with just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time. Whether you're spicing up weeknight dinners or exploring the world of plant-based recipes, this gluten-free, vegan-friendly dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
Peel and grate the carrots. Grate the zucchini and lightly squeeze out any excess water using your hands. Set both aside.
Finely chop the onion, green chilies, garlic, and ginger.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Add the chopped onion, green chilies, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Stir in the turmeric powder, ground coriander, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
Add the grated carrots and zucchini to the pan. Mix well to combine with the spices.
Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the vegetables cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Stir in the garam masala and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Turn off the heat and garnish the bhaji with freshly chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lemon juice.
Serve warm as a side dish with rice, naan, or roti, or enjoy it as a light standalone meal.
Calories |
574 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.7 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.3 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 17.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 6249 mg | 272% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 75.8 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.4 g | 51% | |
| Total Sugars | 45.7 g | ||
| Protein | 10.5 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 244 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 7.2 mg | 40% | |
| Potassium | 2098 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.