Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for joy, togetherness, and of course, delicious food. One way to add a traditional touch to your Diwali feast is by preparing Jimikand vegetable, a classic Indian dish that's not only scrumptious but also deeply rooted in our culinary heritage. In this article, we will share a step-by-step recipe to make Jimikand vegetable the traditional way. What is Jimikand? Jimikand, also known as Yam, is a starchy and versatile root vegetable widely used in Indian cuisine. Its neutral flavor allows it to absorb the rich, aromatic spices it's cooked with, making it a perfect canvas for creating delectable dishes. Ingredients You'll Need: Before we dive into the cooking process, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need to make this traditional Diwali dish. For the Main Dish: 500 grams of Jimikand (Yam), peeled and cubed 1/4 cup of mustard oil 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds 1/2 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing) 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder 1 tablespoon of coriander powder 1 tablespoon of red chili powder 1 tablespoon of garam masala Salt to taste Fresh coriander leaves for garnish For the Masala Paste: 2 onions, finely chopped 2 tomatoes, finely chopped 1-inch piece of ginger 5-6 cloves of garlic 2-3 green chilies 1/4 cup of water Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's start preparing the Jimikand vegetable. Step 1: Preparing the Masala Paste Jimikand vegetable is a dish that relies on a flavorful masala paste, which gives it its rich taste. In a blender, combine the finely chopped onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and green chilies. These ingredients form the foundation of the dish's flavor. Add 1/4 cup of water to the blender, and blend the ingredients into a smooth paste. This paste will serve as the essence of the dish, infusing it with a delightful medley of tastes. Step 2: Cooking the Jimikand The next step in creating this traditional Diwali delight is to cook the Jimikand with the prepared masala. Heat the mustard oil in a pan until it starts to smoke. Mustard oil is a common choice in Indian cooking and adds a distinctive flavor to the dish. Reduce the heat and add cumin seeds and asafoetida. These spices sizzle and release their aromatic goodness. The asafoetida, also known as hing, contributes to the unique Indian flavor profile. Add the masala paste to the pan and sauté it until the oil separates from the paste. This step is crucial for building the base flavors of the dish. Now, add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. These spices form the core of Indian seasoning and will provide the Jimikand with its characteristic spiciness and warmth. Cook the masala until the oil separates again, indicating the spices are well incorporated. Gently add the cubed Jimikand to the pan and mix it well with the masala. The Jimikand's neutral flavor makes it a perfect canvas for the spices and aromatics, allowing it to absorb the rich flavors. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Cook until the Jimikand becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors, which will take about 20-25 minutes. The slow cooking process is essential for the Jimikand to become soft and infused with the spices. Finally, sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Garam masala adds the finishing touch, providing a burst of warmth and fragrance to the dish. Step 3: Serving Your traditional Jimikand vegetable is now ready to be served. This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with hot rotis or steamed rice, making it a perfect addition to your Diwali feast. A Flavorful Diwali Delight This Diwali, elevate your culinary experience by preparing Jimikand vegetable the traditional way. The unique combination of spices and the heartiness of Jimikand will leave your taste buds dancing in delight. So, get into the Diwali spirit and treat your loved ones to this delectable, traditional dish. May your festival be filled with light, love, and mouthwatering food. Make these sweets and dishes at home on Dhanteras Dangers of Overindulging in These 5 Winter Foods Leading to Heart Attacks Spooky but Safe: Halloween Safety Tips for Kids and Parents