Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add the oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cloves, bay leaf, cardamom, and cinnamon stick and cook for about 30 seconds, until the bay leaf changes color and the cinnamon stick gets fragrant. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the black pepper, fenugreek, and garam masala. Mix for a few seconds to infuse the oil, then stir in the onion and ¼ teaspoon of the salt. Increase the heat back to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is golden, about 7 to 10 minutes. Add splashes of water to help the onions cook and brown evenly.

Then, mix in the ginger garlic paste, and cook for 30 seconds. If the paste is splattering, add a splash of water to help it calm down. If you’re using minced ginger and garlic, cook for a minute or until the garlic is starting to turn golden.

Now, mix in the non-dairy yogurt, remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt, spinach, and water or stock or non dairy milk, and bring to a boil. Then, stir in the beans. Taste and adjust the salt and flavor. You can add in more black pepper for more heat at this point and more salt, if needed, or some non dairy cream or cheese for creamier. Then partially cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Switch off the heat, then garnish with the red pepper flakes, black pepper, cilantro, and vegan parmesan and serve.

Serve kali mirch beans with garlic bread, naan, flatbread, toasted sourdough. For a fusion dish, you can spoon it over a baked potato, seared cauliflower, or your favorite pasta!