Mirch-Cauliflower Kolhapuri

A famous dish from the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, the Veg Kolhapuri is made with a unique spice mix and vegetables cooked in an equally spicy gravy. Here's a slightly cut-down version using the 'Bajji' green chilies and Cauliflower.

MIRCH CAULIFLOWER KOLHAPURI

Ingredients:
Kolhapuri Masala : Cinnamon 1" stick
Cumin seeds 1/2 tsp
Fennel seed(saunf) powder 1/2 tsp
Star Anise (Chakri phool) 1
Bay leaves 2
Black Cardamoms 2
Black peppercorns 7-8
Other Ingredients :
Ginger -garlic paste - 1 tsp
Mixed boiled vegetables - 1.5 cups
Oil 4 tbsps 1/2
Dry coconut (khopra) grated
Cloves 8
Black peppercorns 8
Poppy seeds (khuskhus/posto) 1 tsp
Coriander seeds 1 tsp
Whole dry red chillies 6
Onions chopped 2 large
Tomatoes chopped 2 large
Red chilli powder 1 1/2 tsps
Turmeric powder 1 tsp
Salt to taste Fresh coriander leaves chopped

Method : 
1. Grind all the ingredients of the Kolhapuri garam masala to an almost fine powder and keep aside.

2. Heat two tbsps oil in a kadai. Add grated kopra, cloves, peppercorns, khus-khus, coriander seeds, red chillies and lightly fry.

3. Keep aside 1/4th of the chopped onions aside and add remaining to the pan. Cook till it turns slightly brown. Cool & grind these ingredients to a paste with a little water.
4. Heat remaining 2 tbsps oil in another pan. Add the remaining chopped onions and sauté till brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and continue to sauté.
5. Now add chopped tomatoes, haldi, red chilli powder, ground masala paste, half cup water and cook for two minutes.
6. Add the boiled vegetables, simmer for four to five minutes. Add the Kolhapuri masala powder, check for salt and mix well. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.