Kerala Style Beetroot Pachadi Recipe
Description:
Beetroot pachadi is a traditional and flavorful side dish from Kerala, often prepared during the vibrant Onam feast. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness, sourness, and spiciness. The vibrant pink color of the pachadi comes from the beetroot, and its creamy texture is achieved by adding yogurt. Whether served with steaming hot rice or alongside other dishes like Vendakkai Uppadan and Jackfruit Seeds Stir Fry, this Kerala Style Beetroot Pachadi is sure to add a delightful touch to any meal. Perfectly blending the rich flavors of coconut, mustard, and curry leaves, this dish embodies the essence of Kerala’s culinary tradition.
Cuisine:
Indian
Course:
Side Dish
Diet:
Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beetroot | 2 medium-sized |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/2 cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Grinding: | |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1/3 cup |
| Dry Red Chilli | 3 whole |
| Ginger | 1 inch piece |
| Mustard seeds (Rai / Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| For Seasoning: | |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai / Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 5-6 leaves |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1 whole |
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Beetroot:
Begin by washing the beetroot thoroughly, peeling off the skin, and grating it into fine pieces. -
Cook the Beetroot:
Add the grated beetroot to a pressure cooker, and cook it with just enough water to cover the beetroot. Close the lid and cook for about 3-4 whistles or until tender. Once cooked, set aside to cool slightly. -
Grind the Paste:
In a mixer, add the grated fresh coconut, dry red chilies, ginger, mustard seeds, and cumin seeds. Grind them together into a smooth paste, using a small amount of water as needed. -
Combine with Beetroot:
Once the beetroot is cooked, open the pressure cooker, and add the freshly ground paste along with turmeric powder and salt. Stir everything together thoroughly. Let the mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the raw smell of the paste to cook off. -
Add the Curd (Yogurt):
After the beetroot mixture has cooled down slightly, whisk the curd (yogurt) well to make it smooth. Add the yogurt to the cooked beetroot mixture and mix until fully incorporated. The curd will give the pachadi its creamy texture and tangy flavor. -
Prepare the Seasoning (Tadka):
Heat oil in a small pan (tadka pan) and add mustard seeds. Once the seeds begin to splutter, add the dry red chili and curry leaves. Allow the spices to splutter for a few seconds to release their aromatic flavors. -
Combine:
Pour the seasoned oil into the beetroot pachadi and stir well, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout. -
Serve:
Serve your Kerala Style Beetroot Pachadi as a side dish with hot steamed rice, and pair it with other Kerala delicacies such as Vendakkai Uppadan (Okra Stir Fry) and Jackfruit Seeds Stir Fry for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Kerala Style Beetroot Pachadi:
- Adjust the amount of yogurt to your preference for a creamier or tangier flavor.
- Ensure that the beetroot is cooked properly to avoid any raw taste in the final dish.
- The seasoning (tadka) is crucial for adding the final burst of flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Enjoy the authentic taste of Kerala with this delicious Beetroot Pachadi, a perfect addition to your festive spread or any regular meal!
