Zucchini Bharta

Learn how to make Zucchini Bharta, a simple, flavorful Indian dish with roasted zucchini and spices. Perfect for a healthy, vegan side.

Recipe Source Link:https://www.mygingergarlickitchen.com/zucchini-bharta/

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RECIPE INGREDIENTS

» For Roasting

• 2 large zucchini
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 2 small green chilis
• 1/4 teaspoon oil for brushing

» Making Zucchini Bharta

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Pinch of asafoetida (I used gluten free)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped ginger and garlic
• 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• Salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon roasted kasuri methi
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro

» For Serving

• Chopped cilantro leaves
• Lime wedges

RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS

» Roast Zucchini

1. Start by making slits in the zucchini. Stuff each slit with garlic cloves and green chilies. Brush each zucchini with oil, which will help peel off the skin easily after roasting.
2. Begin roasting the zucchinis directly over a flame or on an electric or induction stove, flipping occasionally. You need to roast until the zucchini turns dark and is completely cooked from the inside. Since I cooked the zucchini on an electric stove, I also used a torch to char the skin.
3. Once charred, remove the zucchini and let it cool completely. Once cooled, peel off the skin. Mash the roasted zucchini, garlic cloves, and green chilies with the help of a fork. Set it aside.

» How to Make Zucchini Bharta

1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds or until fragrant. Add chopped ginger and garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add chopped onions and sauté until the onions turn translucent.
2. Next, add chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder, and sauté until the spices become aromatic. Then add chopped tomatoes and cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
3. Add salt to taste and mix again. After that, add the roasted and mashed zucchini and mix well to combine. Cook for 5 minutes or until the flavors are well combined.
4. Add roasted kasuri methi and garam masala powder. Mix well, then add the chopped cilantro. Mix again until everything is well combined. Lastly, add ghee and mix again, then cook for a minute. Your delicious zucchini bharta is ready.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, drizzle with lime juice, and serve hot with makki ki roti, palak paratha, or rice.

RECIPE NOTES

1. It adds a distinct flavor to this bharta. However, adding garlic is optional, so if you don't like garlic, feel free to skip it. Your bharta will still taste delicious.
2. Roasting enhances the flavor of this bharta recipe. You need to roast the zucchini until it is slightly charred. I have used it on an electric stove, but you can also roast it in an oven.