Aratikaya Tomato Koora (Andhra Style Plantains with Tomato) Recipe
A Flavorful Andhra Style Vegetarian Dish: Aratikaya Tomato Koora
Aratikaya Tomato Koora is an aromatic and delicious vegetarian dish from the Andhra cuisine, where unripe plantains (green bananas) are cooked with tangy tomatoes and a medley of spices. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors—slightly spicy, savory, and with a touch of sweetness from the plantains. It’s not only delightful on the palate but also healthy, as plantains are rich in Vitamin C, dietary fiber, and essential amino acids. This recipe is a great way to enjoy plantains, packed with nutrients and full of vibrant Andhra flavors.
This Andhra-style dish is typically served with Phulkas (Indian flatbreads) or Steamed Rice along with a bowl of Andhra Style Pappu Charu (a flavorful lentil-based soup). A perfect combination for a wholesome and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Recipe Overview
| Dish Name | Aratikaya Tomato Koora (Andhra Style Plantains with Tomato) |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Andhra |
| Course | Lunch, Side Dish |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Plantain Stem | 3, cut into small cubes |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomatoes | 3, finely chopped |
| Green Chilli | 1, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1 tablespoon, grated |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Oil | As required |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100-120 kcal per serving |
| Protein | 2-3g |
| Carbohydrates | 23-26g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 3-4g |
| Sodium | Varies based on salt and oil used |
| Vitamins | High in Vitamin C and K |
Instructions
-
Prep the Plantains:
Begin by peeling the outer skin of the plantains. Cut them into small cubes and immediately place them in a bowl of water to avoid discoloration until you’re ready to cook. -
Temper the Spices:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and urad dal. Let the seeds crackle and pop, releasing their aromatic flavors. -
Add Aromatics:
Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and curry leaves to the tempering. Let it splutter for a few seconds to infuse the oil with these fragrant spices. -
Sauté the Onions and Spices:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the grated ginger, chopped green chili, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until the raw aroma of ginger disappears and the spices bloom. -
Cook the Plantains:
Drain the water from the plantains and add the cubes to the pan. Stir to combine everything well. Season with salt to taste, then cover with a lid and let the plantains cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. -
Add Tomatoes:
Once the plantains are tender, add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything together and add a small splash of water if the mixture looks too dry. Cover the pan again and let it cook for another 5 minutes to allow the tomatoes to soften and blend with the spices. -
Final Stir and Serve:
Once the tomatoes are cooked down, gently stir everything together. Turn off the flame and your Aratikaya Tomato Koora is ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions
- With Phulkas: This dish pairs beautifully with soft Phulkas (Indian flatbread). The light and fluffy texture of phulkas complements the spicy and savory plantain mixture.
- With Steamed Rice: For a more hearty meal, serve Aratikaya Tomato Koora with Steamed Rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful curry, making each bite even more delightful.
- Side of Pappu Charu: A bowl of Andhra Style Pappu Charu (a tangy lentil soup) completes the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the spice of the koora.
Tips and Variations
- Ripened Plantains: Although traditionally made with unripe plantains, you can experiment with using slightly ripened plantains. They will have a sweeter taste and softer texture but may require less cooking time.
- Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your preferred spice level. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chili quantities.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan as no dairy or animal-based products are used. Just ensure you use vegetable oil for tempering.
- Add Nuts: For added texture and flavor, you can toss in a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews just before serving.
Enjoy your Aratikaya Tomato Koora as a flavorful side dish or as a main course with your favorite flatbread or rice. It’s a perfect vegetarian delight that brings the authentic taste of Andhra Pradesh to your dining table!
