Karwar Style Surana Bhaji Recipe – Hot and Sour Yam Dry Curry
Description
Karwar Style Surana Bhaji is a delightful and flavorful side dish from the coastal region of Karnataka. Known for its perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements, this yam curry offers an explosion of flavors that will awaken your taste buds. The dish is prepared using elephant yam (also called Suran, Senai, or Ratalu) and slow-cooked with aromatic spices, which makes each bite a burst of savory goodness. The key to the distinct taste of this curry lies in its slow pressure cooking, where the yam absorbs the tanginess from tamarind and the sweetness from jaggery, combined with the warmth of traditional spices.
This curry is a must-try for those seeking an authentic Karnataka experience. It pairs wonderfully with rice, making it an ideal side dish for any meal.
Cuisine: Karnataka
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elephant yam (Suran/Senai/Ratalu), peeled and cut very small | 500 grams |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 10 |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tamarind Paste | 1 cup |
| Jaggery | 1 teaspoon, grated or pounded |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For cooking |
Nutritional Information
(Approximate values per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 140mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spices
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them splutter for a few seconds, releasing their aroma. -
Roast the Spices
To the skillet, add the dry red chillies, methi seeds (fenugreek), asafoetida, and turmeric powder. Roast the spices for a few seconds, ensuring they do not burn but release their flavors. Remove the skillet from the heat. -
Grind the Spices
Once the roasted spices have cooled slightly, transfer them to a mixer grinder and blend them into a smooth, aromatic paste. Set this aside for later. -
Cook the Yam
In a pressure cooker, heat a little oil and add the cut elephant yam pieces. Fry the yam pieces lightly until they are slightly golden and soft on the edges. Add the ground spice mixture to the cooker, ensuring the yam is evenly coated. -
Add Tamarind and Jaggery
Now, pour in the tamarind paste and jaggery. Stir well to combine, making sure the yam pieces are covered in the tamarind and jaggery mixture. The tamarind will provide the tanginess, and the jaggery will give a subtle sweetness to the curry. -
Pressure Cook the Curry
Close the pressure cooker and cook the yam for 4 whistles. Once the whistles are done, allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the lid. The yam should be tender, and the spices will have penetrated through, creating a delightful balance of flavors. -
Serve
Once the curry is ready, transfer it to a serving dish. Karwar Style Surana Bhaji is best enjoyed hot. Serve it alongside Karwar Style Varan Kadhi and freshly steamed rice for a complete and delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Karwar Style Surana Bhaji makes an excellent side dish for any traditional meal, particularly when paired with rice. You can also serve it alongside rotis or chapatis. Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it a perfect companion to a variety of other Karnataka delicacies.
This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and offers a wholesome, flavorful addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking to explore the cuisine of Karnataka or add some zest to your daily meals, Karwar Style Surana Bhaji will surely impress.
Tips
- Adjust the Spice Level: You can adjust the number of dry red chillies according to your preference for spice. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of chillies.
- Texture of Yam: For a softer consistency, cook the yam for a longer period. If you prefer a firmer texture, reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Tamarind Paste: Ensure that the tamarind paste is of good quality to bring out the authentic sourness in the curry. You can also use fresh tamarind if preferred.
Enjoy your Karwar Style Surana Bhaji as a delicious, vibrant side dish!
