Looking for a comforting and nutritious meal that comes together in just one pot? Say hello to our One Pot Cauliflower Dal and Quinoa Green Curry! This vibrant dish not only tantalizes your taste buds with its rich Indian flavors but also packs a powerful punch of nutrients. Imagine tender cauliflower and fluffy quinoa simmered in creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices—it's a culinary hug in a bowl! Whether you're a busy professional or a home cook seeking simplicity, this recipe is your ticket to a deliciously satisfying dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to create this wholesome delight!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and curry powder to the onions, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release the aromatic spices, cooking for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine and scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the rinsed quinoa and chopped cauliflower to the liquid. Stir to ensure all ingredients are well distributed.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa is fully cooked and the cauliflower is tender.
- Check the consistency periodically, adding more broth if needed to prevent sticking. The final dish should be creamy and slightly thick.
- Season with salt to taste, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and quinoa to fully absorb remaining liquid.
- Fluff the mixture with a fork before serving. Optional: garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Don't skip rinsing the quinoa! This step removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. A thorough rinse ensures your dish is deliciously flavorful.
- Sauté with Care: When sautéing the onions and garlic, keep an eye on the heat. You want them to become golden and aromatic without burning, which can ruin the dish's flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the consistency of the curry. If you like it creamier, add a bit more coconut milk or vegetable broth during cooking.
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and taste as you go. This way, you can find the perfect balance without over-salting your dish.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit covered for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the quinoa to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy it throughout the week—just reheat and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 218kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 0mg
