Navratan Korma is a rich and aromatic vegetarian dish that comes from the heart of North Indian cuisine. The name Navratan translates to “nine gems,” referring to the nine different vegetables, fruits, and nuts used in this flavorful curry. This dish, often served during festive occasions or as part of a royal feast, is a perfect example of Mughlai-inspired vegetarian cooking, blending Indian spices with luxurious ingredients like cream, yogurt, and nuts.
Origins and Significance
Navratan Korma has its roots in the Mughal era, a time when food was not just about sustenance but a symbol of wealth and power. The Mughal emperors, known for their lavish feasts, loved to incorporate rich and indulgent ingredients in their dishes. Navratan Korma reflects this royal heritage, offering a dish that is both visually appealing and bursting with a variety of textures and flavors.
The nine “gems” in Navratan Korma can vary based on regional preferences and availability of ingredients. Traditionally, the dish contains a combination of vegetables such as carrots, peas, potatoes, and beans, along with fruits like pineapple or apples, and nuts such as cashews, almonds, and raisins. The beauty of Navratan Korma lies in its versatility—it can be made with a range of ingredients, offering a unique taste every time. The Mughlai cooking style is characterized by its rich, indulgent use of ingredients like cream, nuts, and dried fruits, creating dishes that are both luxurious and deeply flavorful.
Key Characteristics
Navratan Korma stands out for its rich and creamy gravy, which is made from a blend of yogurt, cream, and ground nuts. The spices used in the curry, including cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, bring warmth and depth without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the vegetables and fruits. The addition of saffron or rose water elevates the dish, giving it a distinctive, fragrant aroma.
The balance between the savory and slightly sweet elements is what makes this dish so delightful. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to explore the richness of Mughlai cuisine without the use of meat.
Navratan Korma Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes)
- 1/4 cup paneer (cubed, optional)
- 1/4 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 cup yogurt (whisked)
- 2 tbsp cashew paste
- 2 tbsp cream
- 1/4 cup raisins and almonds (soaked)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, and garam masala. Stir well.
- Add mixed vegetables and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add yogurt, cashew paste, and cream. Cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in raisins, almonds, and pineapple (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with naan or basmati rice.
