Pumpkin Erissery Recipe – Kerala Pumpkin Coconut Curry
Pumpkin Erissery is a beloved dish from the southern state of Kerala, India. This hearty curry brings together the earthy flavor of pumpkin with the richness of coconut and a variety of spices, making it a perfect accompaniment for rice. The dish is mildly spiced, with a blend of turmeric, cumin, and fresh coconut, while a crispy coconut-tadka topping gives it an aromatic finish. If you’re looking for a healthy, vegetarian option that’s full of flavor, this Kerala-style Pumpkin Erissery is a must-try.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 300 grams (peeled and chopped) |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup (to be ground) |
| Fresh coconut (toasted) | 1/4 cup |
| Green chili | 1 (slit) |
| Mustard seeds | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| White urad dal (split) | 2 teaspoons |
| Curry leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Dry red chilies | 3 (broken) |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coconut oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Kerala
Course: Lunch/Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Paste
To start, we will first prepare the spice paste. In a mixer grinder, combine the grated fresh coconut, cumin seeds, and green chili. Add a little water as needed to form a smooth paste. Set the paste aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Pumpkin
In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the chopped pumpkin pieces along with a splash of water, salt, and turmeric powder. Stir everything together, cover the pan, and cook on medium heat until the pumpkin is tender but still holds its shape. Stir occasionally to ensure that the pumpkin cooks evenly and the water reduces, leaving a thick consistency. This process should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your pumpkin pieces.
Step 3: Add Coconut Paste
Once the pumpkin is cooked, add the prepared coconut-spice paste to the pan. Mix it well and allow the Pumpkin Erissery to cook on low heat for 4-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell a rich, aromatic fragrance. At this stage, check the taste and adjust the salt or spices as needed.
Step 4: Prepare the Tadka (Seasoning)
In a small pan (tadka pan), heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. Then, add the urad dal and sauté until it turns golden brown. Add the curry leaves and dry red chilies, stirring them around until they become aromatic.
Now, add the toasted coconut to the pan and continue stirring for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the coconut to brown lightly and become fragrant.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Pour the hot coconut-tadka mixture over the cooked Pumpkin Erissery. Give it a good stir to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Turn off the heat and allow the flavors to settle.
Serve the Pumpkin Erissery hot with steamed rice, and for a complete Kerala-style meal, pair it with Thakkali Vengaya Sambar (tomato and onion sambar) and Vazhakkai Varuval (spicy fried raw banana).
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin Erissery is best enjoyed with freshly steamed rice, as the creamy coconut curry complements the rice beautifully. For a traditional Kerala meal, serve it alongside other dishes like:
- Thakkali Vengaya Sambar: A tangy and spicy South Indian lentil-based soup.
- Vazhakkai Varuval: A crispy, spiced raw banana fry.
- Pappadam: Thin, crispy Indian crackers to add crunch.
This comforting curry is also perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend lunch with family and friends. The mild yet flavorful blend of coconut and spices makes this dish an irresistible treat for anyone who enjoys authentic South Indian cuisine.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Enjoy making this Kerala Pumpkin Coconut Curry and let the warmth of traditional spices fill your kitchen with delicious aromas!
