Coorg Style Bollari Barthad Recipe – Mangalore Cucumber Stir Fry

Embark on a culinary journey to the verdant hills of Coorg with this delightful Coorg Style Bollari Barthad, a traditional Mangalore cucumber stir fry that is bursting with flavors and is a wonderful accompaniment to your meals. Known for its unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients, this dish captures the essence of Coorgi cuisine, bringing together the natural sweetness of Mangalore cucumber, the crunch of freshly grated coconut, and the aromatic spices that make every bite a delight. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and textures as we prepare this vegetarian masterpiece.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings

• Servings: 4 people

Cuisine

• Cuisine: Coorgi
• Course: Side Dish
• Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber

To start off with the Coorg Style Bollari Barthad, take the Mangalorean cucumber, halve it, and carefully scoop out the seeds and any tough rind, ensuring you retain the tender flesh. Once done, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. The unique texture of Mangalore cucumber contributes significantly to the dish’s overall flavor and appeal.

Step 2: Sauté the Spices

In a kadai or a deep pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. This initial step releases the mustard’s essential oils, infusing the oil with flavor. Immediately after the mustard seeds start to pop, add the white urad dal to the pan.

Step 3: Incorporate Aromatics

As the urad dal turns golden and crispy, which should take just a couple of minutes, introduce the cumin seeds, curry leaves, and broken dry red chilli. Sauté the mixture for a brief moment until the curry leaves sizzle, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Following this, add the crushed garlic cloves and sliced onion, cooking them until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Cucumber

Now, add the diced Mangalorean cucumber to the pan, followed by turmeric powder and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the spices coat the cucumber evenly. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture cook on low heat. If you find that the stir fry appears to need a bit more moisture, feel free to sprinkle a little water to assist in the cooking process.

Step 5: Prepare the Masala Paste

While the cucumber is cooking, take a mixer grinder and add the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and dry red chillies. Grind them into a coarse paste with a little water. Once you achieve a nice consistency, add the freshly grated coconut to the mixture and pulse it once or twice to combine. This coconut masala will add a rich texture and flavor to the dish.

Step 6: Combine and Finish Cooking

When the cucumber is approximately three-quarters cooked through, introduce the ground masala paste and, if you like a hint of sweetness, add the jaggery. Mix everything together well, ensuring that the cucumber is well-coated with the masala. Allow it to cook until all the water has evaporated, and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your Coorg Style Bollari Barthad is now ready to be served! This vibrant stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, offering a wholesome meal. For a truly authentic Coorgi experience, enjoy it alongside Nuggekai Kharbyaali (North Karnataka Spiced Drumstick Sambar), Pineapple Gojju, and Phulka for a complete feast. The combination of flavors and textures will surely leave your guests impressed and wanting more.

This delightful Coorg Style Bollari Barthad not only highlights the uniqueness of Mangalorean cucumbers but also embodies the warmth and hospitality of Coorgi cuisine. It’s perfect for special occasions or even a simple family dinner. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the nutritional benefits of this exquisite dish!