Coorgi Kummu Curry – Spicy Mushroom Gravy with Coconut and Garlic

Kodava Kummu Curry Recipe – Coorg Style Mushroom Curry

Kodava Kummu Curry, or Coorg Style Mushroom Curry, is a rich and aromatic dish that originates from the scenic Kodava district in Coorg, Karnataka. In the local Coorgi language, mushrooms are referred to as “Kummu,” and this curry, bursting with authentic flavors, is a staple in the region. The earthy mushrooms are combined with a flavorful blend of spices, coconut, and garlic, creating a spicy and comforting gravy that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or flatbreads like Parotta. Whether you’re exploring Coorgi cuisine for the first time or revisiting it, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to the lush hills of Coorg.

Ingredients

Preparation Time

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time

• 25 minutes

Instructions

1. Preparation of Ingredients:
   Begin by chopping all the vegetables and mushrooms. Set them aside for easy access during cooking.

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2. Grinding the Coconut Paste:
   In a small blender, grind the fresh grated coconut, cumin seeds (jeera), and garlic together. Add a little water to ensure it blends smoothly into a fine paste. Set this coconut paste aside for later use.

3. Tempering the Spices:
   Heat a kadai (wok) or deep pan over medium heat. Add some oil, then toss in the curry leaves. Allow the leaves to sparkle for a few seconds before adding the dry red chillies and coarsely pounded black peppercorns. Let them sizzle and release their flavors.

4. Sautéing the Onions and Green Chillies:
   Next, add the thinly sliced onions and chopped green chillies to the pan. Sauté the onions until they soften and turn golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. This adds a depth of flavor to the curry base.

5. Cooking the Mushrooms:
   Add the chopped mushrooms to the pan. Stir frequently and cook the mushrooms until they release their moisture and start to shrink slightly. This step allows the mushrooms to absorb the flavors of the spices.

6. Incorporating the Coconut Paste:
   Add the prepared coconut paste to the pan with the mushrooms. Stir well to coat the mushrooms in the paste and cook it for about 3-4 minutes, until the paste is well-cooked and aromatic.

7. Adding Tomatoes and Spices:
   Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Sprinkle in the coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Stir everything together to combine, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the spices to infuse into the curry.

8. Simmering the Curry:
   Pour in about 1/2 cup of water to create a thick gravy. Mix well, then cover the pan and let the curry simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures the mushrooms cook through.

9. Final Adjustments:
   After 5 minutes, check the seasoning and adjust the salt or spices according to your taste. If you prefer a thinner curry, you can add a little more water at this stage.

10. Serving:
    Turn off the heat and transfer the Kodava Kummu Curry to a serving bowl. Serve it hot with Ghee Rice (Neychoru), Parotta, or even Chapati for a wholesome Coorgi-style lunch or dinner. Pair with a side of Moong Sprouts Usal to complete the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Kodava Kummu Curry is traditionally served with Ghee Rice or Neychoru, a fragrant rice dish drizzled with ghee that complements the spicy, rich flavors of the curry. The curry also pairs well with Parotta, a flaky, layered flatbread that soaks up the delicious gravy. For a complete Coorgi meal, serve with Moong Sprouts Usal, a light, protein-packed dish of sprouts in a tangy, spiced gravy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands used.

This Kodava Kummu Curry recipe is a perfect example of Coorgi cuisine’s ability to turn simple ingredients into a dish full of depth, heat, and texture. With earthy mushrooms, the warmth of curry leaves, and the richness of coconut, this curry is a great addition to your repertoire. Ideal for a weekday dinner or a weekend feast, it brings the taste of Coorg straight to your table. Enjoy!