If you’re looking for a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal routine, kohlrabi sabzi is a fantastic choice. This traditional Indian-style stir-fry brings out the subtle sweetness and crunch of kohlrabi, transforming it into a flavorful, comforting dish.
Perfect as a side or a light main, kohlrabi sabzi is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients and vibrant spices that awaken the palate.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is approachable and adaptable. The mild, slightly peppery kohlrabi pairs beautifully with everyday Indian spices, creating a dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
Plus, it’s a great way to surprise your family with something new that’s both healthy and delicious. Let’s dive into the full recipe and discover why kohlrabi sabzi deserves a spot on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kohlrabi sabzi is a wonderful blend of simple ingredients and robust flavors that come together quickly. Here’s why this recipe will soon become a favorite:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious: Kohlrabi is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish with rice, roti, or even as a topping for breads and wraps.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spices and add other vegetables or legumes to suit your taste.
- Comforting yet light: A warm, homey dish that isn’t heavy on the stomach.
Ingredients
- 2 medium kohlrabi bulbs (peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or mustard oil for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 green chilies (slit lengthwise, optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
- ½ cup water (to cook the kohlrabi)
Equipment
- Sharp vegetable peeler or paring knife
- Cutting board
- Medium-sized non-stick pan or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Bowl for mixing and serving
Instructions
- Prepare the kohlrabi: Peel the outer skin carefully using a vegetable peeler or knife. Cut the kohlrabi into bite-sized cubes. Rinse and set aside.
- Heat oil and temper spices: In your pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium flame. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the grated ginger and cook for another minute.
- Add spices: Sprinkle turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions and chilies evenly with the spices.
- Cook the kohlrabi: Add the diced kohlrabi cubes and mix thoroughly with the spiced onion mixture. Pour in about ½ cup of water and season with salt to taste.
- Simmer: Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kohlrabi is tender but still holds its shape.
- Finish and garnish: Once cooked, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to evaporate any excess water if needed. Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sabzi. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve warm: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy alongside your favorite Indian bread or rice.
Tips & Variations
“For extra flavor, try adding mustard seeds along with cumin seeds during tempering or toss in a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for authentic aroma.”
- Add potatoes or carrots: For a heartier sabzi, include diced potatoes or carrots along with the kohlrabi.
- Use ghee: Substitute vegetable oil with ghee for richer taste.
- Make it dry or semi-gravy: Adjust the water quantity depending on whether you prefer a drier stir-fry or a slightly saucy texture.
- Spice variations: Incorporate garam masala or amchur (dry mango powder) for an extra layer of flavor.
- Try fresh herbs: Mint leaves or curry leaves can add freshness and complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 110 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Vitamin C | 45% of Daily Value |
Iron | 6% of Daily Value |
Serving Suggestions
This kohlrabi sabzi pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or traditional Indian flatbreads such as chapati or paratha. For a complete meal, serve it alongside dal (lentil soup) or a cooling cucumber raita.
For a modern twist, use the sabzi as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, or toss it with cooked quinoa for a nutritious bowl. If you’re interested in exploring more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or the comforting Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.
Conclusion
Kohlrabi sabzi is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the unique texture and mild sweetness of kohlrabi. Its quick preparation and adaptable nature make it a perfect addition to any meal plan, especially for those seeking healthy, vegetarian options.
Whether you’re introducing kohlrabi for the first time or revisiting this versatile vegetable, this sabzi recipe offers a satisfying taste experience with a touch of Indian spice.
By incorporating this recipe into your repertoire, you’ll enjoy a nourishing dish that’s both wholesome and delicious. Don’t forget to explore other vibrant recipes on our site like the Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or the flavorful Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious for more inspiration.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!
📖 Recipe Card: Kohlrabi Sabzi
Description: A simple and flavorful Indian-style stir-fry made with tender kohlrabi and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish for any meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 medium kohlrabi, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 green chili, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh coriander leaves
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard and cumin seeds; let them splutter.
- Add chopped green chili and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add diced kohlrabi, turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt.
- Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add water, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until kohlrabi is tender.
- Remove lid, cook uncovered for 3 minutes to dry excess water.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 12 g
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