Goan Style Caldinho de Abobora Branca (Mild Curry of White Pumpkin)
Goan cuisine is a delightful blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and unique flavors. One such dish is the Goan Style Caldinho de Abobora Branca, a mild yet flavorful curry made with white pumpkin, also known as Vellai Poosanikai or Ash gourd. This vegetarian dish is both light and nutritious, perfect for a fulfilling lunch or dinner when served with steamed rice.
The beauty of this curry lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients that bring out the delicate taste of the pumpkin. The creamy coconut paste combined with aromatic spices like cumin, ginger, garlic, and turmeric forms a delectable gravy that coats the pumpkin perfectly. If you’re looking to try something new or wish to explore Goan flavors, this recipe is an excellent choice.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vellai Poosanikai (Ash Gourd/White Pumpkin) | 200 grams, peeled and chopped small |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 sprigs, chopped |
| Sunflower Oil | As required for sautéing |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger | 1 inch, chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, chopped |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Carbohydrates | ~25g |
| Fat | ~3g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~300mg |
| Vitamin C | ~10% of Daily Value |
| Iron | ~5% of Daily Value |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Goan
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Cook the White Pumpkin:
Begin by pressure cooking the chopped white pumpkin (Vellai Poosanikai) with a pinch of salt and water for about 1 whistle. This ensures the pumpkin becomes tender but not mushy. Once cooked, set it aside. -
Prepare the Masala Paste:
In the meantime, grind the fresh coconut, cumin seeds (jeera), ginger, garlic, and turmeric powder together. Add a little water to make a smooth paste. This masala will form the base for the curry, giving it richness and flavor. -
Sauté the Onions:
Heat a flat skillet or pan and add sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent and slightly golden. -
Cook the Masala Paste:
Once the onions are sautéed, add the prepared masala paste to the pan. Cook the paste for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raw smell disappears and the masala thickens and blends together. -
Combine Pumpkin and Masala:
Now, add the cooked white pumpkin along with the water it was cooked in to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the pumpkin is coated with the masala. Adjust the salt to taste and allow the curry to simmer for another 5 minutes so all the flavors meld together. -
Finish with Lemon and Coriander:
Turn off the heat and squeeze in lemon juice to balance the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves (dhania) for a burst of freshness. -
Serve:
Serve the Goan Style Caldinho de Abobora Branca hot with steamed rice and a side of potato vindaloo to complete the meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Caldinho de Abobora Branca:
- Consistency of the Curry: If you prefer a thicker curry, reduce the water slightly. If you like a more soupy consistency, feel free to add a little more water.
- Optional Spice Level: This curry is traditionally mild, but if you enjoy a spicier kick, you can add green chilies or black pepper along with the masala paste.
- Fresh Coconut: Fresh coconut enhances the flavor, but if you don’t have access to fresh coconut, you can substitute with desiccated coconut or coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Other Vegetables: While the recipe calls for white pumpkin, you can experiment with other vegetables like bottle gourd or zucchini, which work similarly in this dish.
This Goan Style Caldinho de Abobora Branca recipe brings the taste of coastal Goa to your kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of creamy coconut, fresh spices, and tender white pumpkin makes for a comforting, nutritious curry that pairs perfectly with rice. This recipe is sure to be a hit at your next family meal!
