Gujarati Kadhi Recipe

Gujarati kadhi is a comforting, yogurt-based dish from Gujarat, known for its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spiced flavors. 

It’s traditionally made with yogurt and gram flour (besan) but can be easily adapted to a vegan version using plant-based yogurt.

This recipe is simple, family-friendly, and flexible enough to adjust to your taste. Serve it with rice or roti for a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Vegan Gujarati Kadhi

You’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups of unsweetened vegan yogurt (like almond or soy yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons of gram flour (besan)
• ½ teaspoon of grated ginger or ginger paste
• 3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 2–3 teaspoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 3 cups of water
• Salt to taste
• ½ teaspoon of mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1 cinnamon stick (about 1 inch)
• 4 cloves
• 8–10 curry leaves
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or any neutral cooking oil
• Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together quickly for a flavorful dish. Adjust the green chilies and sugar to balance the spice and sweetness to your liking.

How to Make Vegan Gujarati Kadhi

Step 1: Whisk the Yogurt Mixture

In a large mixing bowl or directly in a saucepan, whisk together the vegan yogurt, gram flour, grated ginger, green chilies, turmeric, sugar, and salt. Gradually add water while whisking to create a smooth, lump-free mixture.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture continuously to prevent curdling. Once it comes to a gentle boil, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

In a small pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them crackle. Then, add the dried red chilies, cinnamon stick, cloves, and curry leaves. Sauté until the spices are fragrant.

Step 4: Combine the Tempering and Kadhi

Carefully pour the tempering into the simmering kadhi and stir well. Let the kadhi simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve

Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the kadhi hot with steamed rice, roti, or a side of potato curry.

Our Tips for The Perfect Gujarati Kadhi 

Making Gujarati kadhi is straightforward, but these tips can help ensure great results:

1. Prevent curdling: Stir continuously while cooking the yogurt mixture and keep the heat at medium or low.
2. Taste and adjust: This recipe is naturally sweet, but you can reduce the sugar or add extra chilies for more spice.
3. Temper carefully: Tempering spices can burn quickly, so keep an eye on them and sauté on low to medium heat.

How to Serve Gujarati Kadhi

Gujarati kadhi pairs beautifully with plain steamed rice for a simple yet comforting meal. You can also serve it with roti or paratha for dipping, making it a fun and interactive meal for the whole family.

If you’re serving a larger spread, kadhi works wonderfully alongside vegetable dishes like saag aloo or a bean curry. Its light, creamy flavor complements spiced dishes perfectly, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gujarati kadhi is beloved for its sweet and tangy flavor, but it’s also light and nourishing. The plant-based yogurt adds probiotics, making it a gut-friendly dish that aids digestion and eases bloating. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy families or weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

This vegan Gujarati kadhi recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones. With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether served with rice or enjoyed with roti, this versatile dish is a winner every time.

Remember, you can always adjust the spice and sweetness to your liking. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages experimentation, so feel free to make it your own.

Frequently Asked Questions