Author: Rituraj Kitchen

Title: Dhaba Style Veg Fried Rice

Introduction:
Dhaba-style veg fried rice is a flavorful and wholesome Indian twist on the classic Chinese fried rice. These roadside eateries in India are known for their bold and robust flavors. In this recipe, we infuse Indian spices and ingredients into a simple fried rice, creating a dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

For the Fried Rice:
– 2 cups cooked and cooled Basmati rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small carrot, diced
– 1 small bell pepper, diced (use a mix of colors for visual appeal)
– 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon red chili sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Ensure all the vegetables are chopped and ready before you begin cooking. Cook the Basmati rice and allow it to cool completely to prevent it from becoming mushy when stir-fried.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green chilies. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

3. Add Vegetables: Add the diced carrot, bell pepper, green peas, and cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but still crisp.

4. Season and Spice: Sprinkle the garam masala over the vegetables and season with salt. Mix well to evenly coat the vegetables.

5. Stir-fry Rice: Add the cooked and cooled Basmati rice to the pan. Gently stir-fry the rice with the vegetable mixture for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring that the rice is well mixed with the vegetables.

6. Sauce It Up: Drizzle soy sauce and red chili sauce over the rice and vegetables. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauces to coat the rice evenly. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish your dhaba-style veg fried rice with fresh coriander leaves if desired. It’s now ready to be served hot. Enjoy this flavorful dish on its own or pair it with raita or your favorite Indian side dish.

Dhaba-style veg fried rice is a delightful blend of Indian and Chinese flavors that offers a satisfying and wholesome meal. The combination of colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and a hint of spice makes it a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Title: Dhaba Style Jeera Rice

Introduction:
Dhaba-style jeera rice is a popular North Indian dish known for its robust flavors and rustic charm. Typically found at roadside dhabas (eateries) in India, this dish is a delightful accompaniment to various curries and gravies. It’s characterized by the rich taste of cumin seeds and a hint of spices. Here’s a quick and easy recipe to replicate that authentic dhaba experience at home.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain Basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons cumin seeds (jeera)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)
– 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the Basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain it.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds.

3. Add Onions and Spices: Add the chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and turmeric powder. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

4. Toast the Rice: Add the drained rice to the pan. Gently sauté the rice for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become aromatic.

5. Simmer and Season: Pour in the water and season with salt according to your taste. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes without disturbing it.

6. Check Doneness: After 15-20 minutes, check the rice. The grains should be tender and separate. If needed, cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

7. Rest and Fluff: Turn off the heat and let the jeera rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and the flavors to meld. After resting, use a fork to gently fluff the rice.

8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dhaba-style jeera rice with fresh coriander leaves if desired. Serve this flavorful rice alongside your favorite North Indian curries, daals, or enjoy it on its own.

Dhaba-style jeera rice captures the essence of the Indian roadside eateries, known for their hearty and bold flavors. With this recipe, you can bring the delightful taste of dhaba cuisine to your own kitchen, adding a touch of rustic charm to your meals.

Title: Dhaba Style Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Introduction:
Dhaba Style Paneer Butter Masala is a classic North Indian dish loved for its rich, creamy tomato-based gravy and tender chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This recipe will guide you through the steps to recreate the authentic flavors of this beloved dhaba (roadside eatery) specialty at home.

Ingredients:

For Paneer Marinade:
– 250g paneer, cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup thick yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– Salt to taste

For Paneer Butter Masala Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, pureed
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Paneer:
a. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
b. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Pan-fry the Paneer:
a. Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan over medium heat.
b. Add the marinated paneer cubes and cook until they turn golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3. Prepare the Paneer Butter Masala Gravy:
a. In the same pan, add more ghee if needed. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
b. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
c. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic, sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
d. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture, stirring occasionally.
e. Add the cashew paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens and the raw taste disappears.
f. Add sugar (if using) and garam masala, and continue to cook for a few more minutes.

4. Simmer the Gravy:
a. Reduce the heat to low, and gradually stir in the heavy cream and milk.
b. Add water to adjust the consistency, and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes.

5. Add the Paneer:
a. Gently add the pan-fried paneer cubes into the gravy.
b. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.

6. Garnish and Serve:
a. Garnish your Dhaba Style Paneer Butter Masala with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
b. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Dhaba Style Paneer Butter Masala is a delightful and indulgent dish, featuring the perfect balance of creaminess and spices. With this recipe, you can savor the flavors of a roadside dhaba right in the comfort of your home. Enjoy this delectable dish with your loved ones.

Title: Dhaba Style Shahi Paneer Recipe

Introduction:
Dhaba Style Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy North Indian dish that combines succulent pieces of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a luxurious, flavorful tomato-based gravy. This dish is known for its bold flavors and is a favorite at roadside dhabas (Indian eateries). Follow this easy recipe to recreate the magic of Dhaba Style Shahi Paneer right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For Paneer Marinade:
– 250g paneer, cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup thick yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– Salt to taste

For Shahi Paneer Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, pureed
– 1/4 cup cashew nuts, soaked and ground into a paste
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Paneer:
a. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
b. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Pan-fry the Paneer:
a. Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan over medium heat.
b. Add the marinated paneer cubes and cook until they turn golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3. Prepare the Shahi Paneer Gravy:
a. In the same pan, add more ghee if needed. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
b. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
c. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic, sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
d. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture, stirring occasionally.
e. Add the cashew paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens and the raw taste disappears.
f. Add sugar (if using) and garam masala, and continue to cook for a few more minutes.

4. Simmer the Gravy:
a. Reduce the heat to low, and gradually stir in the heavy cream and milk.
b. Add water to adjust the consistency, and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes.

5. Add the Paneer:
a. Gently add the pan-fried paneer cubes into the gravy.
b. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.

6. Garnish and Serve:
a. Garnish your Dhaba Style Shahi Paneer with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
b. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Dhaba Style Shahi Paneer is a delightful indulgence with its creamy texture and rich, aromatic flavors. This recipe allows you to bring the essence of Indian dhaba cuisine into your home, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or when you crave something truly special. Enjoy!

Dhaba Style Aloo Gobi Recipe

Dhabas, the roadside eateries in India, are known for their flavorful and rustic dishes. Aloo Gobi, a classic North Indian curry featuring potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi), is a staple at these establishments. Here’s how to recreate the authentic Dhaba Style Aloo Gobi at home, brimming with bold flavors and spices.

Ingredients:

For the Aloo Gobi Mixture:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
– 1 small cauliflower head, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
– 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup green peas (optional)
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the Dhaba-Style Gravy:
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 onions, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
– 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds
– 2-3 cloves
– 2-3 green cardamom pods
– 1-inch cinnamon stick
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt to taste
– 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

Aloo Gobi Mixture:

1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Sauté for a minute or until the seeds splutter.

2. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute or until the raw smell disappears.

3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook this mixture until the tomatoes become soft and the oil starts to separate.

4. If using green peas, add them at this stage and sauté for a few minutes.

5. Add the potato cubes and cauliflower florets. Mix them well, ensuring they are coated with the spicy tomato mixture.

6. Sprinkle garam masala and mix well. Cook for a few more minutes.

7. Cover the pan with a lid and let the Aloo Gobi cook on low heat. Stir occasionally until the potatoes and cauliflower are tender but not mushy. Set this Aloo Gobi mixture aside.

Dhaba-Style Gravy:

1. In a separate pan, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add cumin seeds, black mustard seeds, cloves, green cardamom, and cinnamon. Sauté for a minute or until the spices release their aroma.

2. Add finely chopped onions and green chili. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a few minutes.

4. Add the coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for a couple of minutes.

5. Pour in water and cook until the oil separates from the spices and the mixture thickens.

Bringing It Together:

1. Combine the Aloo Gobi mixture with the Dhaba-Style Gravy and mix well.

2. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together, and the gravy reaches your desired consistency.

3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

4. Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.

Dhaba Style Aloo Gobi is a delightful and comforting dish that captures the essence of North Indian roadside cuisine. Enjoy this classic curry with your loved ones and savor the rich blend of spices and textures that make it a dhaba favorite.