Phulkopir Kasundi: A Taste of Bengal’s Mustard Magic
This delightful Bengali dish, Phulkopir Kasundi, is a flavourful and aromatic cauliflower preparation bathed in a rich mustard sauce. The pungent, sharp, and nutty flavour of the mustard seeds perfectly complements the tender cauliflower florets, creating a sensory journey that is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. This dish is a staple in Bengali cuisine and is often served with piping hot rice and a dollop of ghee for an enhanced culinary experience.
Details
| Course | Main Course/Side Dish |
|---|---|
| Cuisine from which Indian State or country | Bengali, West Bengal, India |
| Servings | 4-6 people |
| Preparation time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking time | 20 minutes |
| Calories | Approximately 250 per serving |
Ingredients
- 1 large Cauliflower, broken into florets
- 1 Tbsp Black Mustard Seeds / Kala Sarson
- 1 1/2 Tbsp Yellow Mustard Seeds / Pili Sarson
- 4 Tbsp Fresh Coconut, grated
- 1 1/2 Tbsp Poppy Seeds / Khus Khus (or 2 Tbsp Cashewnut pieces if Poppy Seeds are not available)
- 2-3 Green Chillies
- 2 Tbsp Mustard Oil / Sarson ka tel
- 1 Tsp Nigella Seeds / Kala Jeera
- 1/2 Tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 Tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1 Tsp Roasted Cumin Seeds / Jeera Powder
- 1/2 Tsp Sugar
- 1 Tsp Clarified Butter / Ghee
- Salt to taste
Method
- Heat the Mustard Oil in a wok or pan until it smokes, then reduce the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Add the Nigella Seeds to the oil and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add the cauliflower florets and fry them for about 2 minutes.
- In a grinder or blender, make a paste using the Black Mustard Seeds, Yellow Mustard Seeds, grated Coconut, Poppy Seeds (or Cashewnut pieces), and Green Chillies.
- Add this paste to the wok or pan with the cauliflower.
- Add Turmeric Powder, Red Chilli Powder, Roasted Cumin Powder, Sugar, and Salt to taste. Mix well.
- Cook until the gravy thickens and the raw smell of the mustard disappears.
- Add the Clarified Butter / Ghee and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh Green Chillies and serve hot with rice.
Special Note
This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of the rich culinary traditions of Bengal. The first time I tasted Phulkopir Kasundi was at a Durga Pujo buffet, where the flavors and aromas transported me to a world of nostalgia and culinary delight. Recreating this dish in my own kitchen was a journey down memory lane, and every bite brings back the warmth and love of traditional Bengali cooking.
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