Goan Style Podollim Recheado Com Batata (Snake Gourd Stuffed with Sweet Potato)
Introduction
Goan cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and rich use of spices. One such dish is Podollim Recheado Com Batata, a delightful combination of snake gourd and sweet potato, stuffed to perfection and shallow fried for a crispy bite. This vegetarian snack captures the essence of Goan cooking with its use of traditional spices like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chili powder. The dish, made from snake gourd (also known as pudulangai), is filled with a flavorful stuffing of mashed sweet potato, making it a perfect treat for both adults and children. Whether served as a snack or a side dish, these stuffed rounds make a tasty and satisfying addition to any meal.
This recipe is simple to make, yet packed with delicious flavors that will transport your taste buds to the beautiful coastal state of Goa. Ideal for serving with a refreshing drink like a smoothie or freshly squeezed Mulled Apple Juice, Goan Style Podollim Recheado Com Batata is a must-try for anyone who enjoys flavorful, vegetarian dishes.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Snake Gourd
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Snake Gourd (Pudulangai) | 1, peeled and cut into roundels |
| Salt | To taste |
| Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs | 1 cup |
For the Stuffing
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet Potato | 2, skin peeled and boiled |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig, chopped |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Ginger | 1 inch, chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, chopped |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 180 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fats | 5g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
(Note: The nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredients and preparation methods used.)
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Sweet Potato
To begin making the Goan Style Podollim Recheado Com Batata, we first need to cook the sweet potatoes. Start by pressure cooking the peeled sweet potatoes with water for about 5 whistles. The potatoes should become soft and tender. After cooking, release the pressure naturally and drain any excess water from the potatoes. Set them aside to cool slightly before mashing.
Step 2: Preparing the Snake Gourd
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, soak the cut snake gourd in salted water. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This step helps in softening the gourd and removing any bitterness. Once the time is up, drain the water and pat the snake gourd slices dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Making the Stuffing
In a flat skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter for a few seconds. Then, add the curry leaves and let them crackle for a few moments. Next, add the chopped ginger and garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes, allowing the mixture to soften and become aromatic.
Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they turn translucent. Once the onions are ready, add the boiled and mashed sweet potatoes. Season with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix the ingredients well, and use a masher to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and well-combined with the spices. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes, then switch off the heat and let it cool.
Step 4: Stuffing the Snake Gourd
Take the soaked and dried snake gourd slices and carefully stuff them with the sweet potato mixture. The stuffed snake gourd should form a thick disc or cutlet shape. Coat each stuffed gourd slice with whole wheat bread crumbs on both sides, ensuring they are evenly covered.
Step 5: Shallow Frying the Stuffed Snake Gourd
Heat oil in a flat skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded stuffed snake gourd slices to the pan. Cook them for about 10 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Ensure that the cutlets are cooked through and crisp on both sides.
Step 6: Serving
Once cooked, remove the stuffed snake gourd from the skillet and drain any excess oil on a paper towel. Serve your Goan Style Podollim Recheado Com Batata as a snack, ideally accompanied by a refreshing drink like smoothies or Mulled Apple Juice for a complete treat.
Tips for the Perfect Goan Style Podollim Recheado Com Batata
- Choosing Snake Gourd: Make sure to select fresh snake gourd with a tender texture. Older gourds may have a more bitter taste.
- Sweet Potato Variations: You can experiment with different varieties of sweet potatoes for a unique flavor profile, though the traditional orange variety works best for its creamy texture.
- Crispier Coating: For an extra crispy finish, you can dip the stuffed gourd slices in a mixture of flour and water before coating with breadcrumbs.
- Stuffing Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables or even cheese to the stuffing to make it richer.
Conclusion
Goan Style Podollim Recheado Com Batata is a delightful vegetarian snack that brings together the goodness of snake gourd and sweet potatoes in a mouthwatering combination. The addition of aromatic spices and shallow frying gives it a crispy texture while keeping the stuffing tender and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a snack time gathering or simply craving something different, this Goan-inspired dish will surely impress. Give it a try today and treat yourself to an authentic taste of Goa, right in the comfort of your kitchen!
