Kerala Style Cauliflower Thoran Recipe
Description:
Thoran is a quintessential dish from the South Indian state of Kerala, known for its simplicity and vibrant flavor profile. This recipe features tender cauliflower florets sautéed with fresh coconut, mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves, resulting in a dish that is aromatic and full of contrasting textures. Rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, cauliflower is the star of this dish, making it a nutritious and wholesome addition to any meal. Whether served as a side dish or paired with steamed rice or chapati for a satisfying main course, Kerala Style Cauliflower Thoran is a delightful and healthy choice for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, easy to make, and requires only a few basic ingredients. For variety, you can substitute cauliflower with other fresh vegetables like cabbage, beans, carrots, or leafy greens. If you like a more complex flavor, feel free to add ginger and garlic to elevate this dish further.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (Gobi), finely chopped | 1 medium-sized cauliflower |
| Pearl onions (Sambar onions), finely chopped | 10 small onions |
| Coconut oil | 1 tablespoon |
| White urad dal (split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 12 leaves, torn |
| Fresh coconut, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Green chillies, finely chopped | 4 green chillies |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Instructions:
-
Heat the Oil: Start by heating the coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
-
Temper the Spices: Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them splutter for a few seconds. Then, add the cumin seeds and white urad dal. Allow them to crackle until the dal turns golden brown.
-
Sauté Onions and Chillies: Add the finely chopped pearl onions, green chillies, and curry leaves to the pan. Sauté for a few seconds or until the onions turn soft and translucent.
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Add Turmeric and Cauliflower: Stir in the turmeric powder, followed by the chopped cauliflower florets. Mix well to coat the cauliflower evenly with the spices.
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Cook the Cauliflower: Add salt to taste and cook the mixture covered on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender. If needed, sprinkle a little water to prevent the dish from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
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Add Fresh Coconut: Once the cauliflower is cooked through, add the grated fresh coconut to the pan. Stir everything together for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust the salt or spices if necessary, and turn off the heat.
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Serve: Transfer the Cauliflower Thoran to a serving bowl. Serve hot with steamed rice or chapati, and pair it with a side of mixed vegetable sambar for a complete South Indian meal.
Tips for the Perfect Kerala Style Cauliflower Thoran:
- If you prefer a slightly spicy dish, feel free to add a few extra green chillies or a pinch of red chili powder.
- For an added depth of flavor, consider adding finely grated ginger and garlic when sautéing the onions and curry leaves.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with other South Indian staples like Sambar and Rice, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
- If you’re looking for variety, try swapping out cauliflower with other vegetables like cabbage, beans, or carrots for a different take on this dish.
