Pumpkin Peas Palya Recipe
A Delicious South Indian Delight with Authentic Coastal Flavors
Introduction:
Pumpkin Peas Palya, also known as Pumpkin Peas Curry, is a traditional South Indian dish that’s both hearty and vibrant. This dish brings together the sweetness of pumpkin, the mild flavor of green peas, and a delightful mix of spices and fresh coconut. The coconut oil and grated coconut lend it an authentic coastal Karnataka flavor, making it a perfect addition to your lunch menu. Whether youβre a pumpkin lover or simply craving a light yet flavorful vegetarian dish, this recipe will surely tickle your taste buds.
This recipe is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed with steamed rice or even alongside a delicious Tomato Onion Sambar for a wholesome meal. It is a wonderful choice for vegetarians, combining seasonal ingredients with traditional spices for a warm, comforting dish.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Peas Palya
(Serves 2-4)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 1-1/2 cup, cubed |
| Green peas (Matar) | 1/2 cup, cooked |
| Fresh coconut | 2 tablespoons, grated |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 2 teaspoons |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Coconut oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 5 leaves |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions for Making Pumpkin Peas Palya
-
Cook the Pumpkin:
- Begin by boiling 2 cups of water in a vessel. Add the cubed pumpkin (Kaddu) into the boiling water and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until the pumpkin is half-cooked. Once done, strain the water and set the pumpkin cubes aside.
-
Prepare the Tempering:
- Heat a heavy wok or frying pan on medium heat and add coconut oil. Let the oil heat up before adding mustard seeds. Allow the mustard seeds to splutter, releasing their aromatic flavor.
- Add the chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) and fry it until it turns golden brown, which will take about 2 minutes.
- Next, toss in the curry leaves and fry for a few seconds until they crisp up, infusing the oil with their essence.
-
Combine Pumpkin and Spices:
- Add the pre-cooked pumpkin cubes and the cooked green peas (Matar) to the wok. Stir everything together.
- Sprinkle in the amchur (dry mango powder), garam masala powder, and red chili powder. Mix well to ensure the spices coat the pumpkin and peas evenly.
-
Simmer and Finish:
- Let the mixture cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to blend in with the vegetables. Add salt to taste.
- Stir in the grated fresh coconut and mix thoroughly. Cover the pan and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes on low heat. This step helps the flavors meld together.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Once the Pumpkin Peas Palya is cooked, it is ready to serve. Enjoy it alongside Tomato Onion Sambar and Steamed Rice for a traditional South Indian meal. For a refreshing drink, serve Curry Leaves Buttermilk on the side to complement the flavors.
Tips for a Perfect Pumpkin Peas Palya:
- Pumpkin: You can use any variety of pumpkin available, but a sweet and tender pumpkin works best for this dish.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your preferred spice level. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the chili powder and amchur.
- Coconut Oil: For an authentic flavor, always use fresh coconut oil, especially if youβre aiming for the coastal Karnataka taste.
- Coconut: If fresh coconut is unavailable, you can substitute with desiccated coconut, but fresh will provide the most authentic flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Vibrant and Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin and green peas, along with spices like garam masala and amchur powder, gives the dish a balanced flavor profile that’s both sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays when you need something both healthy and delicious.
- Nutrient-Packed: Full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this dish is a healthy choice for anyone looking to eat clean and enjoy traditional flavors.
Enjoy the flavors of South India with this comforting Pumpkin Peas Palya! Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned cook, this dish is an easy way to experience the taste of coastal Karnataka in your own kitchen.
