Kaikari Masala is one of those hearty, homestyle curries that’ll have your kitchen smelling incredible. It’s a true feast for the senses, filled with a kaleidoscope of veggies like potatoes, cauliflower, butter beans, and vibrant beetroot. The aromas from the warming spices will make your mouth water before you even take a bite.
About the Recipe
Whether a spice fan or just getting into Indian cuisine, this Kaikari Masala is a must-try. It’s one of those beautifully simple veggie curries that lets the natural flavours shine through. You’ll love the interplay of the earthy potatoes and beets with the gentle heat and aroma from the spices. So comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, the combination of vegetables is just so satisfying. The tender potatoes, cauliflower florets, creamy butter beans and jewel-toned beets create this gorgeous medley in every bite. Then you have the richly spiced coconut-tomato sauce that brings everything together with its subtle heat and layers of flavour. It’s hearty, nutritious and downright delicious.
Kaikari Masala
Cooking Tips
To really amp up the flavors, don’t rush the tempering step with the mustard seeds, urad dal and whole spices. Let those aromatic oils develop before adding the other ingredients. And for creamier texture, you can mash some of the potato cubes against the side of the pan as it simmers.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This Kaikari Masala makes a fantastic one-pot meal. Just serve it over steamed basmati rice or with fresh naan bread for soaking up that incredible sauce. Leftovers will keep refrigerated for up to 4 days. It makes about 6 hearty portions. Total cook time is around 45 minutes.
Similar Recipes
- Baingan Bharta (Smoky Eggplant Curry)
- Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)
- Aloo Gobi (Potato & Cauliflower Curry)
- Sambar (Lentil & Vegetable Stew)
Nutrient Benefits
Not only is this curry just pure comfort in a bowl, it’s also packed with nutrition. The vibrant veggies provide a bounty of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. You’ve got fiber-rich potatoes and cauliflower, protein-packed butter beans, and beetroot loaded with folate and manganese. All fueled by anti-inflammatory spices.
Kaikari Masala
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Onions (finely chopped)
- 1 cup Tomatoes (finely chopped)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 cup Potatoes (cubed)
- 1 cup Butter Beans
- 1/4 cup Beetroot (finely cubed)
- 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Cauliflower Florets
- 2 tbsp Fresh Coconut (grated)
For Tempering:
- 3 tbsp Oil
- 2 inch Cinnamon Sticks
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 tsp Black Mustard Seeds
- 2 tsp Urad Dal
Instructions
- Put the oil in a heavy pan over medium heat.
- When the oil is hot add the cinnamon sticks, bay leaf, mustard seeds and urad dal.
- Fry over medium heat for about 30 seconds.
- Add the onions and tomatoes to the pan.
- Stir and cook briefly.
- Mix in turmeric powder.
- Add the pototoes, beans and beetroot.
- Stir-fry for a few minutes.
- Blend in the red chilli powder, cumin powder and salt.
- Mix n about 1 cup of warm water and cook covered over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Add cauliflower florets and cook covered till the vegetables are tender.
- Stir frequently so that the vegetables do not stick to the bottom.
- Add the coconut.
- Stir and remove from heat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables?
Without a doubt. This curry is very flexible. Try adding carrot, bell pepper, zucchini or any veggies you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust cook times based on how quickly they soften.
What makes this curry ‘Kaikari’ style?
The combination of veggies and the rich coconut-tomato base spiced with warming cumin, turmeric and cinnamon. It’s a specialty from the southern Indian state of Karnataka.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a nice gentle kick of heat from the chili powder, but you can easily adjust it to taste. For less heat, start with just 1/2 tsp chili powder. Or add a little cayenne for more of a punch.
Is this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, this Kaikari Masala is naturally vegan and 100% gluten-free as written. Just be sure to use a vegan butter substitute if you want to keep it plant-based.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, this lush veggie curry is perfect for meal prep. Make a batch over the weekend and merely reheat portions throughout the week. The flavors just get better after a day or two.
