Kuvale Sasam Recipe – Konkani Ash Gourd Curry
Introduction:
The Kuvale Sasam is a traditional Konkani dish that features the mild and subtly sweet flavors of Ash Gourd (Vellai Poosanikai) combined with the boldness of freshly ground coconut masala. A blend of coconut, dry red chilies, mustard seeds, and tamarind gives this dish its signature sharpness and depth of flavor. Served as a main course, this curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making it an ideal dish for your everyday meals.
This Konkani Ash Gourd Curry is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nourishing, vegetarian dish full of essential nutrients. Whether you’re new to Konkani cuisine or a seasoned fan, this curry will transport you to the coastal regions of India with every bite.
Cuisine: Konkani
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
For the Freshly Ground Masala:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Dry Red Chillies | 4 |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tamarind | 20 grams |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 1/3 cup |
For the Ash Gourd (Main Ingredients):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vellai Poosanikai (Ash gourd/White Pumpkin), cut into cubes | 300 grams |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Tadka (Tempering):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| Curry leaves | 2 sprigs |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Freshly Ground Masala
To begin preparing the Kuvale Sasam, we first need to grind the masala, which serves as the base for the curry. In a mixer jar, combine the following ingredients:
- Grated fresh coconut
- Dry red chillies
- Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu)
- Turmeric powder (Haldi)
- Tamarind
- Salt to taste
- 1/3 cup of water
Grind the mixture into a coarse paste and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ash Gourd
Next, heat a pressure cooker on medium heat. Add the cut pieces of Ash Gourd (Vellai Poosanikai), turmeric powder, salt, and 1/2 cup of water. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook for one whistle. Once the pressure cooker is off the flame, allow the pressure to release naturally. Afterward, open the pressure cooker and check the Ash Gourd pieces. They should be cooked but not mushy.
Step 3: Combine Masala and Ash Gourd
Return the pressure cooker to the flame and add the freshly ground coconut masala into the cooked Ash Gourd. Stir well and allow the mixture to come to a rolling boil on medium heat. If the curry seems too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding more water. Check for salt and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Once the curry has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
For the final touch, prepare the tadka. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a tadka pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add the dry red chillies and roast them for a few seconds. Finally, add the curry leaves and allow them to crackle. Turn off the heat and pour the tadka over the piping hot Kuvale Sasam.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the hot Kuvale Sasam to a serving bowl and serve it immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, along with a side of Beetroot Poriyal (Stir-Fried Beetroot) and Curry Leaves Buttermilk (Curry Patta Chaas), making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Pro Tip:
To enhance the flavor of your Kuvale Sasam, make sure to adjust the consistency of the curry according to your preference. Some may enjoy it thicker, while others may prefer a more soup-like texture. This recipe can be easily customized to your taste!
Enjoy the delicious flavors of Konkani cuisine with this easy-to-make and flavorful Kuvale Sasam Curry!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-200 kcal |
| Protein | 2-3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25 grams |
| Fiber | 3-4 grams |
| Fat | 8-10 grams |
| Sodium | 200-300 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are estimated based on standard ingredients and serving sizes.)
