Shukto Recipe – Bengali Mixed Vegetables in Mustard and Poppy Seed Gravy
Shukto is a traditional Bengali dish that is known for its distinct bitter-sweet flavor profile, combining a mix of vegetables cooked in a rich mustard and poppy seed gravy. This recipe brings together a medley of vegetables like karela (bitter gourd), raw banana, carrots, potatoes, ridge gourd, and drumsticks, all steeped in a mildly spiced mustard and poppy seed paste. The flavors are further enhanced by the aromatic panch phoran masala, a unique Bengali spice blend, along with the addition of milk that adds a creamy texture and balances the bitterness of the bitter gourd. Though its strong mustard flavor can be an acquired taste, Shukto is a deeply satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty lunch. It pairs wonderfully with puris, Cholar Dal, and Begun Bhaja, making for a fulfilling Bengali meal.
Cuisine: Bengali
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Karela (Bitter Gourd/ Pavakkai) | 1, small diced |
| Raw Banana | 1, peeled and diced |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1, peeled and diced |
| Potato (Aloo) | 1, peeled and diced |
| Ridge Gourd (Turai/ Peerkangai) | 1, peeled and diced |
| Drumstick | 1, cut into 2-inch pieces |
| Panch Phoran Masala | 1 tsp |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1 tsp |
| Poppy Seeds | 2 tsp |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard Oil | 2 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 tsp |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, grated |
| Green Chillies | 2, slit |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2, broken |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Peel and dice the karela, raw banana, carrot, potato, ridge gourd, and drumstick. Set them aside along with the rest of your ingredients. -
Cook the Vegetables:
In a pressure cooker, place all the prepared vegetables (karela, raw banana, carrot, potato, ridge gourd, and drumstick). Add a pinch of salt and about 1/4 cup of water. Cook for 3 to 4 whistles on medium heat. Once done, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release immediately by placing the cooker under running cold water. Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and set the cooked vegetables aside. -
Prepare the Mustard and Poppy Seed Paste:
In a small grinder or pestle, make a paste by grinding 1 tsp of mustard seeds and 2 tsp of poppy seeds. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to facilitate grinding. -
Cook the Shukto Gravy:
Heat mustard oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger, bay leaf, slit green chillies, and broken dry red chillies. Stir-fry them for a few seconds to release their aromatic flavors. -
Add the Spices and Cook:
Next, add 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, the prepared mustard-poppy seed paste, the cooked vegetables, milk, salt, and sugar. Stir everything together gently. Add another 1/4 cup of water to the mixture to achieve a slightly thinner consistency. -
Simmer and Adjust:
Bring the Shukto to a brisk boil. As it boils, the gravy will thicken. You can adjust the consistency by adding more water or milk as needed. Taste the dish and adjust the salt if necessary. -
Finish and Serve:
Once the Shukto reaches your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Serve it immediately while it’s still hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Shukto is traditionally served with Puri, Cholar Dal, and Begun Bhaja (fried eggplant). It makes for a nutritious and flavorful meal that brings a taste of Bengali cuisine to your table.
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Potassium | 800mg |
Shukto is a great way to introduce unique flavors into your meals and provides a refreshing, healthful option. The bitter gourd brings an intriguing element to the dish, balanced by the mustard-poppy seed paste and the smoothness of the milk. Whether you’re enjoying it as a solo dish or paired with traditional Bengali sides, it’s sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.
