Kathal ki Sabji: 4 Amazing Benefits | Serve Creatively

Kathal ki sabji is a popular vegetarian dish in several parts of India. This classic and nutritious dish has been loved for ages and is full of flavour and nutrition. There is a growing demand for innovative ways to serve this classic dish. Of course, you may serve it however you like, but in this article, I will show you to serve this dish in a unique way.

I recommend choosing young jackfruit as they are tender and neutral in flavor. You should avoid older and riper jackfruit for curry.

Kathal ki sabji is a meal that requires no introduction to people who enjoy Indian food. This vegetarian delicacy made from jackfruit is a go-to dish in many parts of India, especially during the summer months. If you pick your jackfruit carefully, this dish is one of the greatest alternatives to meat. You must try to believe!!

Traditionally, kathal ki sabji is cooked with variety of spices and served with rice, roti or naan. However, with the rise of fusion cuisine and modern culinary techniques, there are now countless creative ways to serve this tasty dish. I am not emphasising on presentation but trying to make you aware of different possibilities. From jackfruit burgers to kathal ki biryani, the possibilities are endless. Kathal is also commonly used to make pickles.

Whether you’re a jackfruit fanatic or just looking for some exciting ways to enjoy vegetarian cuisine, keep reading for some delectable ideas!

I have kept this dish little dry since it goes well with roti/naan. There is nothing unique in preparation but in presentation. All spices would still be the same so do not get overwhelmed with the uniqueness I just talked about. I have just presented it differently to make your aware of other serving options.

Ingredients – to make Kathal Ki Sabji

500g tender young Kathal (Jackfruit)

1 inch cinnamon

3-4 cloves

2-3 cardamom

1 bayleaf

2-3 dry red chilli

5-6 black pepper

2 green chilies- finely chopped, 1 green chilli- slit

3 medium-sized onions, finely chopped

2 medium-sized tomatoes, roughly chopped

3 medium-sized boiled potatoes

1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

1 tsp cumin seeds

2 tsp coriander powder

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder

2 tbsp meat masala powder (you may rather use 1tsp garam masala powder)

Salt to taste

2 tbsp oil

Fresh chopped coriander leaves, green chilli and sliced onion for garnish

Benefits of Kathal Ki Sabji

• It is a nutrient-dense fruit that is high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Most significantly, Kathal is a fruit, but we make sabji out of it, which is incredible.

• It is packed with antioxidants and is known to have anti-inflammatory properties.

• When cooked, Kathal has a meaty texture that makes it an excellent substitute for meat in vegetarian dishes.

• Kathal Ki Sabji is a tasty and healthy dish that is ideal for vegetarians searching for a meat-free option.

Get your Kathal ready to cook

Step 1: Before we begin cooking, we need to cut and clean the Kathal. This is an essential step as it ensures that the Kathal is boiled properly and has the right texture.

Step 2: Remove the seeds off the Kathal and cut it into small pieces (of course as you like).

Step 3: Soak the Kathal pieces in water for 4-5 minutes after washing them thoroughly.

Step 4: Strain the water and transfer the Kathal pieces to a pressure cooker.

Step 5: Add 1/2 tsp of salt (optional) and 3-4 cup of water to the pressure cooker and cook for 3-4 whistles or until the Kathal is properly boiled.

Step 6: Allow the cooker to release steam on its own, and then remove the cooker from stove.

Step 7: Drain the excess water and transfer the boiled Kathal to a large bowl. Set them aside.

How to cook Kathal ki Sabji – Steps?

Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a pan and add in cumin seeds and wait for it to splutter.

Step 2: Add in whole spices (black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, bayleaf and cardamom).

Step 3: Add dry red chilli and chopped & slit green chilies to the pan.

Step 4: Add the thinly chopped onions and Sauté until they turn translucent.

Step 5: Add 1 tbsp of ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute.

Step 6: Add 2 roughly chopped tomatoes and sauté for 2 min, then immediately add salt to it to assist tomatoes getting cooked soon.

Step 7: Add all spices now to the pan. Mix well. Keep stirring occasionally until masalas/spices are cooked.

Step 8: Add the cooked Kathal to the pan and mix well with the masala.

Step 9: Add in boiled potatoes and mix well.

Note: feel free not to add potatoes if you want only Kathal to your dish. I have added potatoes as this combination really elevates this dish.

Step 10: Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes or until the Kathal is coated with the masala. Don’t forget to stir periodically.

Step 11: Add water to the pan (roughly 1 cup) and mix well.

Step 12: Cover the pan and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the Sabji is cooked and the gravy has thickened. I personally prefer thick gravy but feel free to add more water if you need.

Step 13: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, sliced onions and green chilli. Serve hot with rice, naan or roti.

Serving Suggestions

Rice: Kathal Ki Sabji goes well with steamed rice, Ghee rice or Jeera rice.

Roti: You may serve it with roti/phulka considering gravy is thick in consistency.

Naan: Believe it or not, this dish pairs well with naan. Give it a try!

Salad: A side salad made with cucumber, tomato, and onion can add a refreshing touch to the meal.

Raita: A cool and creamy raita made with yogurt, cucumber, and mint is a perfect accompaniment to this delicious dish.

Expert Notes

Selection of Kathal (Jackfruit) is really important for the desired taste. Make sure to pick young and fresh kathal because older kathal does not give the tenderness required to this dish.

Because jackfruit is quite sticky, apply oil to your palms while peeling and chopping it. If you do not apply oil on your palm, you will have to work hard to remove the stickiness from your hand.

It’s vital to remove the seeds of kathal after you boil it.

I suggest to add aloo too as it pairs well with jackfruit.

Other Delicious Jackfruit Variations

Jackfruit Biryani: A flavorful and aromatic one pot meal for vegetarians. Biryani made with jackfruit and spices is very popular now among vegans and vegetarians due to its meaty feel and texture. Please give it a try as it tastes really amazing. You won’t be able to find difference between this biryani and a non-veg biryani (if you are a non-vegetarian).

Jackfruit Curry: A creamy and delicious curry made with jackfruit and coconut milk. Coconut milk is however optional. You can follow the same steps mentioned in this post, but add more water while cooking to give the gravy thin texture.

FAQ

Can canned jackfruit be used to make Kathal Ki Sabji?

I always recommend to get the fresh young jackfruit but yes, you can use canned jackfruit if fresh jackfruit is not available. However, make sure to rinse the jackfruit thoroughly before using it.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Don’t forget to re-heat the sabji on the stove or microwave before serving.

Can I make Kathal ki Sabji without onions and garlic?

This dish can be made without onions and garlic; however, taste may differ a bit.

General QnA

What is the best way to cook jackfruit?

Please see: Get your Kathal ready to cook & how to cook Kathal ki Sabji.