Punjabi Kaddu Sabzi – Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Curry

 Punjabi Kaddu Sabzi – Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Curry

Punjabi Kaddu Sabzi is a simple and flavorful North Indian dish made with pumpkin, aromatic spices and a touch of sweetness. The soft pumpkin absorbs the spices beautifully, creating a comforting curry with a delicious balance of sweet, spicy and tangy flavors.

It is an easy everyday dish that pairs wonderfully with puri, roti or paratha.

Ingredients

- 500 g pumpkin, peeled and cut into cubes

- 2 tablespoons mustard oil or cooking oil

- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 pinch asafoetida

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 green chilies, chopped

- 1 teaspoon ginger, finely chopped

- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- ½ teaspoon red chili powder

- ½ teaspoon cumin powder

- ½ teaspoon amchur powder

- ½ teaspoon garam masala

- 1 teaspoon sugar or jaggery

- Salt to taste

- ½ cup water

- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Method

1. Prepare the Pumpkin

Peel the pumpkin and remove the seeds.

Cut it into medium-sized cubes and keep aside.

2. Heat the Oil

Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan.

Allow it to become hot, then reduce the heat slightly.

Add cumin seeds and asafoetida.

3. Cook the Aromatics

Add chopped onion, green chilies and ginger.

Sauté until the onion becomes lightly golden.

4. Add the Spices

Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder and cumin powder.

Stir quickly for a few seconds so the spices don't burn.

5. Cook the Pumpkin

Add the pumpkin pieces and salt.

Mix well so the pumpkin is coated with the spices.

Add water, cover the pan and cook over medium-low heat for about 12–15 minutes.

6. Add the Sweet and Tangy Flavors

Once the pumpkin becomes tender, add sugar or jaggery and amchur powder.

Mix gently.

Cook uncovered for another 3–5 minutes until most of the excess moisture evaporates.

7. Finish the Sabzi

Add garam masala and mix gently.

Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Punjabi Kaddu Sabzi tastes delicious with:

- Puri

- Roti

- Paratha

- Chapati

- Dal and rice

- Plain yogurt

Tips for Perfect Kaddu Sabzi

- Don't add too much water because pumpkin releases moisture while cooking.

- Cook on medium-low heat to prevent the pumpkin from becoming mushy.

- Adjust the sugar or jaggery according to the sweetness of the pumpkin.

- Amchur adds a pleasant tangy flavor.

- Mustard oil gives the dish a traditional North Indian aroma.

Final Thoughts

Punjabi Kaddu Sabzi is a wonderfully simple dish with a delicious balance of sweet, spicy and tangy flavors. It is quick to prepare and makes a comforting addition to an everyday Indian meal.