aloo gobi recipe manjula indian vegetarian food Aloo Gobi Recipe Manjula: Easy Indian Vegetarian Food

Updated On: September 30, 2025

Welcome to a culinary journey that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Indian vegetarian cuisine! Today, we’re diving into the beloved classic, Aloo Gobi, a warm and comforting dish featuring tender potatoes and cauliflower cooked with fragrant spices.

Inspired by Manjula Jain, a renowned Indian vegetarian chef, this recipe brings authentic taste with simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Indian food or new to this cuisine, this aloo gobi recipe will quickly become a favorite on your dinner table.

The magic of aloo gobi lies in its balance – earthy potatoes, lightly crisp cauliflower, and a blend of spices that create a rich, aromatic experience without overwhelming heat. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave a hearty, healthy vegetarian meal.

Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Manjula-style aloo gobi recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s:

  • Easy to prepare: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make it perfect for cooks at all skill levels.
  • Healthy and nutritious: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables and spices.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or side, pairing beautifully with rice or Indian breads like roti or naan.
  • Flavorful but not spicy: The gentle warmth of spices enhances the natural sweetness of cauliflower and potatoes.
  • Great for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity Note
Potatoes 3 medium (about 500g) peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
Cauliflower 1 medium head (about 600g) cut into small florets
Vegetable oil 3 tbsp can substitute with ghee for richer flavor
Cumin seeds 1 tsp for tempering
Mustard seeds ½ tsp adds a subtle pungency
Asafoetida (hing) ¼ tsp optional, enhances digestion
Turmeric powder 1 tsp for color and earthiness
Coriander powder 2 tsp adds a mild citrus flavor
Red chili powder ½ tsp adjust to taste
Ginger root 1 tbsp freshly grated
Green chili 1 small finely chopped, optional for heat
Tomato 1 medium finely chopped
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves ¼ cup chopped, for garnish
Lemon juice 1 tbsp adds brightness

Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan with lid
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Grater for fresh ginger
  • Bowl for mixing and serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Peel and cut the potatoes into small cubes, and break the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Rinse both under cold water and drain well.
  2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, warm 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin and mustard seeds. Allow them to sizzle and pop for about 30 seconds.
  3. Add asafoetida and aromatics: Stir in the asafoetida (if using), freshly grated ginger, and chopped green chili. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomato and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and pulpy, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add spices: Mix in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook the spice mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  6. Add potatoes and cauliflower: Add the prepared potatoes and cauliflower florets to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spice mixture.
  7. Season and cover: Sprinkle salt to taste and mix. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  8. Check for doneness: After 20 minutes, test the potatoes and cauliflower with a fork. They should be tender but not mushy. If needed, cook for another 5 minutes uncovered to evaporate any excess moisture.
  9. Finish with lemon juice and cilantro: Remove the pan from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, and garnish generously with chopped cilantro.
  10. Serve warm: Enjoy your aloo gobi hot with steamed basmati rice, roti, or your favorite Indian bread.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For a richer flavor, try using ghee instead of vegetable oil. It adds a wonderful nutty aroma that enhances the dish.

To add more depth, include a pinch of garam masala at the end of cooking. This warm spice blend lifts the overall flavor beautifully.

You can customize this recipe by adding peas or diced carrots for extra color and nutrition. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of green chili or red chili powder.

For a creamier texture, stir in a few tablespoons of coconut milk or cashew cream during the last few minutes of cooking. This variation pairs well with the flavors of traditional Manjula recipes.

Looking to explore more delicious vegetarian dishes? Check out these recipes:

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 150 kcal
Carbohydrates 28 g
Protein 4 g
Fat 5 g
Fiber 6 g
Vitamin C 60% of Daily Value
Iron 10% of Daily Value
Sodium 300 mg

Serving Suggestions

Aloo gobi is a wonderfully flexible dish that fits into many meal plans. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm, soft Indian breads like chapati, roti, or naan for a complete meal.

It also pairs beautifully with dals (lentil soups) or raita (yogurt-based side dishes) to add cooling contrast.

For a complete Indian-inspired feast, consider adding a simple cucumber salad or a refreshing mint chutney on the side. You can also enjoy aloo gobi as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, making it a fantastic choice for lunchboxes or picnics.

If you love exploring vegetarian Indian dishes, you might enjoy these related recipes:

Conclusion

This aloo gobi recipe inspired by Manjula is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and warmth. With its delightful blend of spices and fresh vegetables, it offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.

Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also caters to a variety of dietary preferences, making it a reliable go-to in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish promises comfort and delight with every bite.

Enjoy the soulful flavors of Indian vegetarian cooking and don’t forget to explore more recipes on our site for a well-rounded, delicious vegetarian lifestyle.

📖 Recipe Card: Aloo Gobi Recipe Manjula Indian Vegetarian Food

Description: A classic Indian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower cooked with fragrant spices. This vegetarian recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect as a side or main dish.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cauliflower florets
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Stir in ginger paste and garlic, cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
  5. Mix turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt into the mixture.
  6. Add potatoes and cauliflower, stir well to coat with spices.
  7. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Marta K

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