Cabbage Thoran Recipe – A Kerala Delight
Cabbage Thoran is a traditional Kerala dish known for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and nutritious profile. It’s a perfect vegetarian side dish that pairs wonderfully with rice, sambar, or even roti. The recipe brings together finely chopped cabbage sautéed with aromatic spices, coconut paste, and curry leaves, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you step by step to create this comforting dish that will surely leave everyone at the table craving for more!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Cabbage, finely chopped | 1 cup | पत्तागोभी – धोकर बारीक काट लें |
| Curry leaves | 3 sprigs | कढ़ी पत्ते |
| Mustard seeds | 1/4 teaspoon | राइ |
| Dry red chili | 1 whole | सुखी लाल मिर्च |
| Split white urad dal | 1 teaspoon | सफेद उरद दाल |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon | हल्दी पाउडर |
| Salt | To taste | नमक – स्वाद अनुसार |
| Oil | 5 tablespoons | तेल |
| Grated coconut | 5 tablespoons | नारियल – कसा हुआ |
| Small onions, halved | 6 pieces | छोटे प्याज – बीच में से काट लें |
| Garlic, chopped | 3 cloves | लहसुन – काट लें |
| Green chilies, halved | 2 pieces | हरी मिर्च – काट लें |
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
4
Cuisine:
Kerala
Course:
Lunch
Diet:
Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Paste
Start by preparing the coconut paste. In a mixer grinder, add grated coconut along with a few curry leaves and grind them to a smooth paste. Once done, set it aside.
Step 2: Temper the Spices
Heat oil in a large pan or wok. Add the split urad dal to the hot oil and sauté it until it turns light golden brown. This should take around 2-3 minutes.
Next, add mustard seeds to the pan and allow them to splutter for about 15 seconds. Be careful not to burn them. After that, toss in the dry red chili and cook it for an additional 10 seconds to release its aroma.
Step 3: Sauté the Cabbage
Once the spices are fragrant, add the chopped cabbage to the pan. Stir well to coat the cabbage with the tempering. Cook the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it softens and reduces in volume. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Coconut Paste and Seasoning
Now, add the freshly ground coconut paste to the cabbage. Mix everything thoroughly. Season with salt and turmeric powder, and add a few more curry leaves for extra flavor. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook
Let the cabbage cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until it is tender and the flavors are well blended. Keep the lid slightly open to allow the steam to escape, ensuring the cabbage doesn’t get too watery.
Step 6: Serve
Once done, turn off the heat and serve your hot, delicious Cabbage Thoran immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with a bowl of steamed rice, mixed vegetable sambar, and a dollop of yogurt for a complete meal. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any South Indian feast or a simple weekday lunch.
Additional Tips:
-
Coconut Texture: For a smoother texture, you can add a little water while grinding the coconut paste. This will also help in creating a more consistent consistency for the dish.
-
Spicy Version: If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add an extra green chili or increase the amount of red chili. Adjust it according to your taste.
-
Fresher Flavor: Using fresh curry leaves can enhance the dish’s fragrance and flavor. If you don’t have fresh curry leaves, you can use dried ones, though fresh is always preferred for the best taste.
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Variation: For a different twist, you can add a small grated carrot to the cabbage while sautéing. It adds a bit of sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
| Sugars | 5 g |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Cabbage Thoran is one of those dishes that balances flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation beautifully. The combination of fresh cabbage with the earthy flavor of urad dal and the fragrance of curry leaves creates a dish that is both light and satisfying. The addition of grated coconut brings richness and depth to the dish, making it an essential part of a Kerala-style meal. Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire!
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish as a part of your lunch or dinner spread, and let the authentic Kerala flavors take you on a culinary journey. Happy cooking!
