Directions: Using a mortar and pestle, or a small grinder, mix garlic, ginger and half of the peanut oil to form a thick paste / Add other spices, half of the water (1/2 C) to this mix, stir together and set aside / In a sauce pan,
heat the other tablespoon of oil to medium hot, add cumin and mustard seeds and allow them to sizzle momentarily / Add spice paste, turn
heat to medium
low, and while stirring, allow to cook for 1 to 2 minutes / Add cauliflower and potatoes, sweet or hot pepper if using / Stir together so that vegetables are coated with the spices / Add the other 1/2 C water, place a lid on, and
simmer for 10 — 15 minutes, until vegetables are tender / Remove lid and
simmer for another 5 minutes / If vegetables are done, remove them from the pan and
continue to
simmer the sauce until it reduces and thickens slightly — just a minute or two / Add roasted asparagus to the bowl / Spoon sauce
over winter and spring veggies, sprinkle with chives.
Add the cheese slowly, stirring all the time, and
continue to
simmer and stir
over low heat until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth, about 5 minutes.