Green onions, also known as scallions, and cilantro are two herbs often utilized in Indian cuisine for their distinct flavors and freshness. In this recipe, Tarala Dalal, a renowned Indian chef, combines these ingredients into a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a side or appetizer. Here, we'll walk through the steps to create her Green Onion and Cilantro Indian Recipe in detail, ensuring you get the taste right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds (rai)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Juice of half a lemon
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Ingredients
First, wash the green onions and cilantro thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit or dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel or use a salad spinner. Then, finely chop the green onions including the white bulbs, and coarsely chop the cilantro. Ensure the green chilies are also finely chopped.
🔍 Note: If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the green chilies before chopping.
2. Tempering
Heat the oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. When they begin to pop and splutter, quickly add the asafoetida and turmeric.
3. Cooking the Green Onions
Add the finely chopped green onions to the pan, stirring continuously to ensure they cook evenly. Sprinkle with salt to help the onions sweat and release their moisture.
4. Adding Cilantro and Spices
After the green onions have wilted slightly, add the cilantro, green chilies, and coriander powder. Mix well, ensuring the spices are well distributed, and cook for about 5 more minutes.
5. Finish with Lemon Juice
Squeeze in the lemon juice, mix, and remove from heat. The citrus will brighten the dish and balance the flavors.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare Ingredients |
| 2 | Tempering |
| 3 | Cook Green Onions |
| 4 | Add Spices |
| 5 | Finish with Lemon |
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served with:
- Roti or Paratha
- As a condiment with rice and curry
- With snacks like pakoras or samosas
By following Tarala Dalal's recipe, you get a versatile dish that is rich in flavor but simple to prepare. The balance of the fresh green onions with the aromatic cilantro creates a harmony of textures and tastes that are both comforting and exciting.
Variations
You can also experiment with:
- Adding grated ginger for extra warmth
- Incorporating a pinch of garam masala for a deeper spice profile
- Using leftover green onion stems for a zero-waste approach
Green onions and cilantro not only bring a splash of green to your dish but also add numerous health benefits. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this recipe not just delicious but also nutritious.
💡 Note: This recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on the number of servings needed.
In this culinary journey with green onion and cilantro, we've explored a recipe that encapsulates the spirit of Indian cooking - simple, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, Tarala Dalal's dish invites you to dive into the complexity of flavors that Indian cuisine has to offer with ease. Enjoy this side dish or appetizer with your family, perhaps adding your personal touch or variations, and revel in the joy of creating something that's both healthy and delectable.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
+
Yes, you can prepare this recipe in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving, adding a touch of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
What if I don’t have green chilies?
+
If you don’t have green chilies, you can substitute with red chili flakes or powder to taste, or simply omit them for a milder dish.
Can I use this as a topping for other dishes?
+
Absolutely! This preparation can serve as an excellent topping for soups, stews, or even as a garnish for grilled meats or vegetables. Its versatility is one of its strong points.
Are there other herbs I can include?
+
While cilantro is central to the recipe’s flavor, you can enhance it with herbs like mint or even a touch of basil for a twist.
How do I store fresh green onions and cilantro?
+Store them wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a zip-lock bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This method keeps them fresh for up to a week.
