Chow Chow Curry Recipe
Chow Chow Curry, also known as chayote curry, is a delightful South Indian dish that celebrates the unique texture and flavor of chow chow, or chayote squash. This vegetarian recipe is not only simple to prepare but also nutritious and perfect for a comforting lunch. The combination of spices and the method of cooking make this curry a flavorful addition to your meal, typically served with rice, sambar, and papad.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chow Chow (Chayote Squash) | 2, peeled and chopped |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| White Urad Dal | 1/2 tsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Curry Leaves | 4, finely chopped |
| Oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 3 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 150 |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (mins) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 |
| Cooking | 40 |
| Total Time | 50 |
Instructions
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Prepare the Chow Chow: Begin by peeling and chopping the chow chow into small, bite-sized pieces. This step is essential as it allows for even cooking and absorption of flavors.
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Cook in Pressure Cooker: Place the chopped chow chow into a pressure cooker along with salt and 3 tablespoons of water. Close the lid securely and cook until you hear three whistles. After the third whistle, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally under cold water. Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and set the cooked chow chow aside.
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Tempering the Spices: In a tempering pan, heat oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and urad dal. Sauté them until the urad dal turns golden brown, releasing its nutty aroma.
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Add Aromatics: Now, add the finely chopped curry leaves, turmeric powder, asafoetida, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine the spices, allowing them to cook for a minute.
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Combine and Cook: Add the cooked chow chow to the tempering mixture and stir gently to coat the pieces with the spices. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Turn off the heat and transfer the chow chow curry to a serving dish. This dish is best enjoyed warm, accompanied by a side of keerai sambar, steamed rice, and crispy papad.
Serving Suggestions
Chow Chow Curry pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, such as:
- Keerai Sambar: A lentil-based vegetable stew with spinach that complements the flavors of chow chow.
- Steamed Rice: The mildness of rice balances the spices in the curry.
- Crispy Papad: A crunchy texture that provides a delightful contrast to the soft curry.
This South Indian delicacy not only tantalizes the taste buds but also nourishes the body, making it a perfect addition to your vegetarian recipe repertoire. Enjoy this wholesome dish and share it with family and friends for a delightful culinary experience!
