Snake Gourd Thoran (Turai Ka Thoran) – A Traditional Kerala Side Dish
Description:
Snake Gourd Thoran, also known as “Turai Ka Thoran,” is a flavorful and nutritious dish that originates from Kerala, India. This dish is often prepared as a side dish during meals, where vegetables are cooked with a blend of coconut and spices. It is also a popular choice during festivals and celebrations. In this recipe, snake gourd is sliced and cooked with grated coconut and seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other aromatic spices, resulting in a dish that is both delicious and aromatic.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Snake Gourd (Turai) | 2, chopped |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Green Chilies | 4, finely chopped |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Oil | As needed |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai) | 1/2 tsp |
| Grated Coconut | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Curry Leaves (Kadhi Patta) | 8 leaves |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 2-3 people
Instructions:
-
Prep the Vegetables:
Wash the snake gourd thoroughly. Cut the snake gourd into small pieces. Similarly, chop the onion and green chilies finely. -
Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, add the chopped snake gourd, onion, green chilies, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix everything well to combine the spices with the vegetables. -
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat some oil in a pan or kadai. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them splutter for about 10 seconds. -
Cook the Thoran:
To the pan, add the cumin powder, curry leaves, and the prepared snake gourd mixture. Stir well and cook the vegetables on medium heat until the snake gourd softens and becomes tender (around 15-20 minutes). -
Add Grated Coconut:
Once the snake gourd is cooked through, add the grated coconut and stir. Cook the thoran for another 2 minutes, allowing the coconut to blend into the dish. -
Final Touch:
Turn off the heat and your delicious Snake Gourd Thoran is ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this simple and flavorful Snake Gourd Thoran alongside steamed rice and mixed vegetable sambar for a complete South Indian meal. The combination of coconut, curry leaves, and mustard seeds brings out a delightful aroma and taste that enhances the entire meal experience.
Enjoy this Kerala delicacy that is as healthy as it is delicious!
