Maharashtrian Kairichi Amti Recipe – Raw Mango Curry
Maharashtrian Kairichi Amti, a delightful raw mango curry, is a must-try dish for those looking to indulge in authentic Maharashtrian flavors. This tangy, mildly spicy curry is perfect for pairing with steamed rice and other accompaniments like gajarachi koshimbir (carrot salad) or dal palak (spinach dal). It combines the freshness of raw mangoes with a unique blend of roasted spices, making it an ideal side dish for everyday meals.
This recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of raw mango, jaggery, and aromatic spices, giving you a taste of traditional Maharashtrian cuisine. The curry is mildly sweet, tangy, and has a lovely depth of flavor, thanks to the freshly ground masala and a tempering of mustard seeds and dry red chilies. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a simple lunch or as a side to a festive dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Mango (cut into pieces) | 2 |
| Jaggery | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Seeds (Dhania) | 1 tablespoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Raw Mangoes
To begin making the Maharashtrian Kairichi Amti, place the raw mango pieces in a pressure cooker. Add 1/4 cup of water along with turmeric powder and salt. Cook for 2 whistles, then turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. The mangoes will soften, releasing their tart flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Amti Masala
While the mangoes are cooking, dry roast the following ingredients until they become aromatic: white urad dal, coriander seeds, methi seeds, and dry red chilies. Toast them on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they don’t burn. Once roasted, grind them into a coarse paste by adding a little water to help blend them smoothly.
Step 3: Combine Mangoes with Amti Masala
Add the freshly ground amti masala paste to the pressure cooker containing the cooked raw mango. Stir to combine well. Add jaggery and salt to taste, adjusting the sweetness and saltiness as per your preference. Let the curry come to a brisk boil, ensuring the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Temper the Curry
In a small tadka (tempering) pan, heat a little oil. Once hot, add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Next, add dry red chilies and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Fry the tempering ingredients until aromatic, then pour this hot tempering over the simmering Kairichi Amti in the pressure cooker. Stir gently to incorporate the flavors.
Step 5: Final Touches
Allow the curry to simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Once ready, turn off the heat and your Kairichi Amti is now ready to serve!
Serving Suggestion
Serve the Maharashtrian Kairichi Amti hot with steamed rice, accompanied by gajarachi koshimbir (carrot salad) and dal palak (spinach dal) for a traditional Maharashtrian meal. The tanginess of the mango curry paired with the sweetness of jaggery and the aromatic spices creates a balanced and fulfilling dish.
Tips for Perfect Kairichi Amti
- Raw Mango: Choose raw mangoes that are firm and slightly tart. This will give the curry its characteristic tanginess.
- Grinding the Masala: For a smoother texture, ensure the roasted ingredients are ground into a coarse paste. The fresher the grind, the better the flavor.
- Adjusting Sweetness: The jaggery can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter curry, you can add a little extra jaggery.
- Consistency: If you like a thinner curry, add more water when cooking the mangoes. If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook the curry a little longer to reduce the liquid.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 16g |
The Maharashtrian Kairichi Amti is a fantastic dish to introduce to your cooking repertoire, offering a wonderful blend of tangy, sweet, and spicy notes. It’s perfect for those seeking a simple yet flavorful vegetarian curry, and it’s a great way to use seasonal raw mangoes. The roasted masala gives it an authentic touch, and the jaggery adds a delightful sweetness to balance the tanginess of the mangoes. Try this recipe for your next meal, and enjoy a taste of traditional Maharashtra!
