Onion Tomato Gravy Recipe

Name: Onion Tomato Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder; 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds (lightly toasted); 2 teaspoons cumin seeds; 9-10 small tomatoes (skinned and washed); 6 large onions (peeled and washed); 10 garlic cloves (peeled and washed); 2- inch piece of fresh ginger (peeled and washed); 1/2 cup cooking oil

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Before we dive into the heart of the onion tomato gravy recipe, let’s talk about how this vibrant dish can elevate your meals.

Imagine a steaming bowl of this savory gravy poured generously over fluffy basmati rice. The combination is simply irresistible. Alternatively, you could serve it with warm, pillowy naan or crispy roti. The soft bread scoops up the gravy beautifully.

If pasta is your thing, this gravy can make a delightful sauce for your favorite noodles. Add in some sautéed vegetables, and you have a superb vegetarian entrée. And let’s not forget about grilled proteins! It’s a fantastic accompaniment to chicken, fish, or even tofu.

Now, let’s get into the rhythm of this delightful recipe.

Today, I’m excited to share with you my go-to onion tomato gravy recipe. This dish has been a staple in my household for years. Trust me, it never fails to impress.

I remember the first time I made it. My friends gathered around the table, and as soon as the aroma filled the room, their eyes widened with delight. You see, onion tomato gravy isn’t just any condiment; it’s a culinary canvas. It transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Let’s dive into the details, shall we?

Table of Contents

What is Onion Tomato Gravy?

At its core, onion tomato gravy is a rich and flavorful sauce primarily made from, you guessed it—onions and tomatoes. The cooking process magic occurs when these humble ingredients are sautéed and simmered to perfection. The gravy is often seasoned with spices that add layers of flavor. It’s a foundational element of many Indian dishes.

This recipe can serve many purposes, from a base for curries to a sauce for pasta. It showcases how simple ingredients can create comfort food that nourishes the soul.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The balance in this dish is quite special. Onions bring sweetness, while tomatoes add a tangy brightness. The addition of spices like cumin and coriander complements the flavors, adding warmth and depth. When cooked together, they create a complex profile that dances on your palate.

You can expect a slightly sweet, savory taste with a hint of spice. It’s a flavor that will have you coming back for seconds, guaranteed.

Why You’ll Love This

You might wonder why, considering that making gravy seems easy. Well, here’s the thing:

Versatile: Whether you want a vegetarian dish, a pasta sauce, or a unique dipping sauce, onion tomato gravy fits the bill.
Packed with Nutrition: The base of onions and tomatoes offers health benefits. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, this dish is as wholesome as it is tasty.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices according to your preference. More heat? Go for it! Less? That’s fine too!
Easy to Prepare: The steps to make this gravy are straightforward. You’ll spend very little time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful onion tomato gravy:

1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 tablespoon of coriander seeds, lightly toasted
2 teaspoons cumin seeds
9-10 small tomatoes, skinned and washed
6 large onions, peeled and washed
10 garlic cloves, peeled and washed
2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and washed
½ cup cooking oil

Gathering these ingredients is simple and often what’s already in your pantry. Let’s move on to putting this all together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get our hands dirty and bring this gravy to life. Follow these steps, and soon enough, you’ll be feasting on a delicious dish.

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onions, garlic, and ginger. This mixture will serve as the flavor base for our dish. You want everything to blend well into a smooth gravy, so practice your knife skills here.

Step 2: Toasting the Spices

Heat a pan over medium heat and add the coriander and cumin seeds. Watch them closely as they toast. You need a minute or two until they release their fragrant aromas. Once done, set them aside to cool, then grind into a fine powder. This step enhances their flavors.

Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the cooking oil. Let it heat up, then add the onions. Sauté them until they turn golden brown. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent burning. Add the ginger and garlic, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Step 4: Adding the Tomatoes

Next, add the skinned and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook them down until they break apart and become a chunky sauce. This should take about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Mixing in Spices

Now it’s time to add the turmeric and the ground spice mix. Incorporate them well with the tomato-onion mix. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This process allows the spices to mingle with the sauce.

Step 6: Blending the Gravy

For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to purée the sauce—just a few pulses will make a difference. If you prefer, transfer it to a blender, but be cautious while blending hot liquids.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste the gravy. Check if it needs salt or more spices. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together nicely.

And there you have it! Your onion tomato gravy is ready to serve.

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and tomatoes lead to a flavor-packed gravy.
Adjust spice levels: If you love heat, consider adding chopped green chilies or red pepper flakes.
Simmer longer for more flavor: Letting the gravy simmer enhances the taste.
Add cream for richness: For a creamy texture, stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
Batch cooking: Make a large batch and store it. It freezes well, making weeknight dinners easier.

Nutrition Information

How Can You Store This Onion Tomato Gravy?

Storing your gravy is a breeze. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigeration: Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, place it in freezer-friendly containers. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to use, just thaw and reheat gently on the stove.

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

What if you can’t find some of these ingredients? No worries! Here are a few substitutions you can try:

In place of fresh ginger, use 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. The flavor will be less intense, but it will work.
If you lack fresh tomatoes, consider using canned tomatoes or tomato puree. Use about 1-1.5 cups of canned tomatoes for the recipe.
For an oil-free version, try using vegetable broth or water to sauté the onions. This method will reduce fat but still yield flavorful results.