Vegetarian Kheema Masala - A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Introduction:

Vegetarian Kheema Masala is a delightful and meat-free rendition of the traditional kheema, offering the same robust flavors and aromatic spices. Made with plant-based ingredients, this dish is a testament to the versatility of vegetarian cuisine. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Vegetarian Kheema Masala that will appeal to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

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Ingredients:

2 cups textured vegetable protein (TVP) or plant-based ground meat substitute

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

2 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped

1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

Preparing the Base:

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

Cooking the Vegetarian Kheema:

Add textured vegetable protein (TVP) or plant-based ground meat substitute to the pan. Cook until it absorbs the flavors and becomes slightly browned.

Incorporate chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate.

Spicing it Up:

Add ground coriander, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt to the mixture. Mix well to coat the vegetarian kheema evenly with the spices.

If using peas, add them to the mixture at this stage.

Simmering for Perfection:

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the vegetarian kheema masala simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Ensure the flavors have melded together and the peas are cooked.

Finishing Touches:

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Vegetarian Kheema Masala hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or chapatis.

Squeeze a lemon wedge over the dish for an extra zing.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the savory and aromatic experience of Vegetarian Kheema Masala, a dish that proves that meat-free can be just as satisfying and flavorful. Whether you're a vegetarian looking for a comforting meal or someone exploring plant-based options, this recipe offers a delicious alternative to the traditional meat-based kheema. Enjoy the rich and robust flavors of this vegetarian twist on a classic dish!