5 Irresistible Indian Curry Recipes with Spring Onions

Spring onions, with their vibrant green tops and crisp white bulbs, are a delightful addition to many dishes. Their mild, fresh flavor can transform ordinary curries into extraordinary culinary experiences. Here are five irresistible Indian curry recipes that feature spring onions as a star ingredient, providing a burst of freshness to your palate.

Recipe 1: Spring Onion and Potato Curry

The combination of earthy potatoes and the subtle zest of spring onions makes this curry a comfort dish with a twist.

• Ingredients:
• 500g potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 bunch of spring onions, chopped
• 3 green chilies, slit
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp oil
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delectable dish:

1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin and mustard seeds. Let them sputter.
2. Add green chilies, followed by the chopped spring onions, and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the potatoes along with turmeric, red chili, and coriander powder. Mix well.
4. Add water just to cover the potatoes, cover, and cook until the potatoes are soft.
5. Uncover, let the curry thicken, and garnish with fresh coriander.

✅ Note: This curry can also be made with new baby potatoes for an extra flavor burst.

Recipe 2: Spring Onion Masala Gravy with Paneer

This rich paneer curry with the gentle sharpness of spring onions offers a delightful contrast.

• Ingredients:
• 200g paneer, cubed
• 1 bunch spring onions, chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• Red chili powder to taste
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• Cream for garnish

To make this curry:

1. Fry the paneer cubes until golden, remove, and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add some more oil if needed, and sauté spring onions until they soften.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add tomato puree, turmeric, cumin powder, chili powder, and cook until oil separates.
5. Season with garam masala, add water to adjust consistency, and simmer.
6. Add fried paneer, cook for a few minutes, and garnish with cream before serving.

✅ Note: For a vegan version, use tofu instead of paneer.

Recipe 3: Spring Onion and Pea Pulao

This aromatic pulao combines spring onions with peas for a light and fragrant rice dish.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 bunch spring onions, finely chopped
• 1 cup peas
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 2 cardamoms
• 1 star anise
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• 4 tbsp ghee or oil
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Here's how to prepare this simple yet flavorful dish:

1. Wash and soak rice for about 20 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat ghee or oil, add whole spices and let them release their aroma.
3. Add cumin seeds, followed by spring onions, and sauté for a minute.
4. Include peas, stir, and cook for another minute.
5. Drain the rice and add to the pot, stir gently to mix everything.
6. Add 4 cups of water, salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook until the water is absorbed.
7. Fluff with a fork, garnish with mint leaves, and serve.

✅ Note: This pulao is perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own.

Recipe 4: Spring Onion and Spinach Dal

Combining the nutritional benefits of spinach and spring onions, this dal is both healthy and tasty.

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas), soaked
• 1 bunch spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 bunch spring onions, chopped
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp asafoetida
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp oil

The steps to make this nourishing dal are:

1. Cook the soaked dal with water and turmeric until soft.
2. Meanwhile, in another pan, heat oil, add mustard and cumin seeds to splutter.
3. Add asafoetida, green chilies, then spring onions, and sauté until translucent.
4. Incorporate tomatoes and cook until they soften.
5. Add chopped spinach, cook until wilted.
6. Mash the cooked dal, combine it with the spinach mixture, add salt, and simmer.

✅ Note: This dal can be thinned with more water if you prefer a soupier consistency.

Recipe 5: Spring Onion and Mushroom Curry

A unique curry where the umami flavor of mushrooms pairs perfectly with spring onions.

• Ingredients:
• 250g mushrooms, sliced
• 1 bunch spring onions, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, pureed
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Red chili powder to taste
• 2 tbsp oil
• Fresh coriander for garnish

The process to create this flavor-rich curry includes:

1. Heat oil, add cumin seeds, then the finely chopped onion, sauté until golden.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste, followed by tomato puree, and cook until the oil separates.
3. Add turmeric, chili powder, and spring onions, cook for a couple of minutes.
4. Include mushrooms, cover, and cook until they are tender.
5. Season with garam masala, adjust seasoning, cook for a few more minutes, and garnish with coriander.

In closing, the subtle yet distinctive flavor of spring onions not only enhances the taste but also adds a nutritional boost to these Indian curry recipes. From comforting potato curry to innovative mushroom curry, each dish showcases the versatility of spring onions. By experimenting with these recipes, you'll find new ways to enjoy this humble yet flavorful ingredient. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal or a side dish to complement your main course, these curries offer something for every palate, ensuring your culinary adventures are both satisfying and memorable.

Can I use frozen spring onions in these recipes?

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While fresh spring onions give the best flavor, you can use frozen if fresh ones are not available. Ensure they are thawed and excess moisture is removed to prevent a watery curry.

What can I substitute for paneer in the Spring Onion Masala Gravy recipe?

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Tofu is an excellent substitute for paneer if you’re looking for a vegan option. It takes on the flavors well and has a similar texture when cooked.

How can I make these curries less spicy?

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To reduce the heat, you can either omit the chilies or use milder varieties, and lessen the amount of red chili powder. Adding a bit of yogurt or cream can also help to mellow down the spiciness.

Can these dishes be prepared in advance for a party?

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Yes, many curries actually taste better when made a day in advance, as the flavors have time to meld. Just be sure to store them in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of water if necessary.