Karuvepillai Pachadi Recipe (Curry Leaf Raita)
Karuvepillai Pachadi, also known as Curry Leaf Raita, is a delightful South Indian side dish that combines the refreshing tang of curd (yogurt) with the aromatic flavors of curry leaves, ginger, and green chilies. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal accompaniment for a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it with rice, biryani, or a simple pulao, this raita is sure to elevate your meal with its vibrant flavors. It’s a wonderful option for everyday meals and adds a healthy, zesty touch to your plate.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
For Pachadi Masala:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curry leaves | ½ cup |
| Ginger (1-inch piece) | 1 piece |
| Green chili | 1 |
| Cumin seeds | ½ tsp |
| Whole black pepper | ½ tsp |
For Raita (Pachadi):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salt | To taste |
| Curd (yogurt) | 1 ½ cups |
For Tempering:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | ½ tsp |
| Mustard seeds | ½ tsp |
| White urad dal | ½ tsp |
| Curry leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Dried red chili | 1 |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pachadi Masala
To begin with, you will prepare the Pachadi Masala. In a mixer or grinder, combine the following ingredients:
- Curry leaves
- Ginger
- Green chili
- Cumin seeds
- Whole black pepper
Grind these ingredients into a smooth paste. Transfer the masala to a bowl and set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Raita Base
In a separate mixing bowl, add the curd (yogurt) and salt. Use a whisk or spoon to beat the curd until it becomes smooth and creamy. Once the curd is well-beaten, add the prepared Pachadi Masala and mix well until everything is combined. Your raita base is now ready!
Step 3: Prepare the Tempering
To add an extra layer of flavor, you will now prepare the tempering (also called “tadka”). Heat oil in a small tempering pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the white urad dal and sauté for a few seconds until it turns light golden brown.
Next, add the curry leaves and sauté for about 10 seconds. Finally, add the dried red chili and let it cook for another 10 seconds. The tempering should have a beautiful aroma by now.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once the tempering is ready, pour it directly into the prepared raita and mix well. The warm oil from the tempering will infuse the raita with a lovely fragrance and enhance its flavor.
Serve the Karuvepillai Pachadi (Curry Leaf Raita) as a refreshing side dish with a variety of South Indian meals. It pairs wonderfully with Avarekalu Pulao (Field Bean Pulao) or a Raw Mango Cucumber Salad for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Tips for a Perfect Karuvepillai Pachadi:
- Consistency of Raita: If the raita feels too thick after mixing in the masala, you can add a little water or extra curd to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of green chilies according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, you can remove the seeds from the green chilies.
- Flavor Enhancement: For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) in the tempering. It will lend a unique flavor and aid in digestion.
- Freshness of Curry Leaves: Ensure the curry leaves are fresh for the best flavor. If you cannot find fresh leaves, dried curry leaves can be used, but the flavor may not be as vibrant.
Serving Suggestions:
This Karuvepillai Pachadi is best served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with traditional South Indian rice dishes, such as Bisibelabath, Lemon Rice, or Coconut Rice. It also complements Chapati or Paratha for a simple, nutritious meal.
Enjoy this easy-to-make and refreshing curry leaf raita as a side dish that brings a burst of flavor to your meal. The combination of tangy yogurt, aromatic curry leaves, and the warm tempering makes this pachadi a must-try for those who love authentic South Indian flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy making and savoring this vibrant Karuvepillai Pachadi at home! Perfect for any occasion, this simple yet flavorful side dish is bound to become a regular feature in your culinary repertoire.
