Raw Papaya Thoran Recipe – A Delightful Kerala Side Dish
Raw Papaya Thoran is a vibrant and flavorful dish from the Kerala cuisine, featuring the goodness of raw papaya, seasoned with aromatic spices and grated coconut. This dish is a perfect vegetarian side, balancing textures and flavors, and is light yet satisfying. Ideal for pairing with traditional Kerala meals like rice and curry or enjoyed on its own, Raw Papaya Thoran offers a burst of freshness and spice. Below, we guide you through creating this delightful dish step-by-step.
Ingredients for Raw Papaya Thoran
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Papaya (peeled, cut) | 300 grams |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| Green Chilli (chopped) | 1 piece |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | As required for frying |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 110 kcal |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 22 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Fat | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Kerala
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Raw Papaya Thoran
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Pressure Cook the Papaya:
Start by preparing the raw papaya. Peel and chop the papaya into medium-sized pieces. In a pressure cooker, add the raw papaya along with enough water and salt to taste. Pressure cook for one whistle, then turn off the heat. Let the pressure release naturally. Once done, carefully drain the water and set the cooked papaya aside. -
-
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and white urad dal. Let them crackle and pop for a few seconds. -
Add Aromatic Spices:
Now, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and a sprig of curry leaves to the skillet. You’ll hear the sizzling and sputtering sound as the spices infuse the oil. Let them fry for a few seconds to release their flavors. -
Combine Papaya with Tempering:
Reduce the heat and add the chopped green chili. Then, add the cooked raw papaya into the pan. Mix everything gently, ensuring that the papaya is well-coated with the tempering spices. Sprinkle some salt to adjust the seasoning. -
Add Coconut and Final Touch:
Once the papaya is mixed with the spices, turn off the heat. Add the freshly grated coconut and toss everything together until evenly distributed. The grated coconut adds a creamy texture and sweetness that beautifully balances the heat from the green chili. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Raw Papaya Thoran hot as a side dish with rice and curry, or enjoy it with chapati or steamed rice for a satisfying meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with Tomato Jeera Rasam, Paruppu Rasam, or even Phulka with Smoked Dal Makhani for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Rice & Dal: Enjoy this delightful thoran alongside steaming white rice, dal, or even a variety of rasams like Tomato Jeera Rasam or Paruppu Rasam for a comforting South Indian meal.
- With Phulka or Chapati: For a light meal, serve it with Phulka or Chapati.
- As a Snack: This can also serve as a nutritious, quick snack that’s packed with fiber and essential vitamins.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy & Nutritious: Raw papaya is rich in antioxidants and fiber, making it a great addition to your diet. It aids digestion and supports healthy skin.
- Quick & Easy: With only a few simple steps, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful: The mix of tempering spices, curry leaves, and fresh coconut creates a beautiful, balanced flavor profile that’s authentic to Kerala cuisine.
This Raw Papaya Thoran is a must-try dish that brings out the flavors of Kerala in every bite. It’s easy to make, light on the stomach, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect side for your next meal. Enjoy!
