Malabar Spinach Mixed Vegetable Curry: Authentic Pui Shaager Chorchori Recipe

Pui Shaager Chorchori Recipe – Mixed Vegetable Curry with Malabar Spinach

Overview

Pui Shaager Chorchori is a delightful and nutritious mixed vegetable curry from the North East of India, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Malabar spinach combined with a medley of vegetables. This vegetarian dish is perfect as a side, bringing warmth and comfort to any meal. It’s not only easy to prepare but also celebrates the freshness of seasonal produce.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Vegetables:

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   • Start by thoroughly washing all the vegetables and Malabar spinach leaves under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. After washing, set them aside to drain.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

   • In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil over low heat until hot. Add 1/2 teaspoon of panch phoran masala, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the oil.
   • Add the 2-3 dry red chillies to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds, enhancing the flavors.
   • Introduce the pumpkin, radish, potato, and eggplant pieces into the pan, stirring well to coat them with the oil and spices. Cook for about 5 minutes.

3. Add Spinach and Water:

   • Gradually add the chopped Malabar spinach leaves to the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle a bit of water over the mixture to help the vegetables steam and cook through.
   • For a quicker method, you can pre-cook the pumpkin and potatoes in a pressure cooker for one whistle, then add them to the pan.

4. Simmer the Curry:

   • Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 15 to 20 minutes on low heat, allowing the vegetables to become tender and infused with the spices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   • Once the vegetables are cooked through, season with salt, turmeric powder, and cumin powder. Stir well to combine.

5. Finish with Sugar and Green Chillies:

   • For a hint of sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of sugar (if desired) and mix well. To add some extra heat, break 2-3 whole green chillies and add them to the curry.
   • If the dish seems too dry, you can add a little more water and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

6. Serve:

   • Once the vegetables are perfectly cooked and the flavors meld together, switch off the heat. Serve the Pui Shaager Chorchori hot, alongside Bengali-style Cholar Dal and steamed rice for a wholesome meal. It also pairs wonderfully with Begun Bhaja (fried eggplant).

Tips for Best Results

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Other great additions could include carrots, beans, or cauliflower.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies and red chillies according to your heat preference.
• Storage: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it as part of a traditional Indian thali or as a standalone dish with chapati or parathas.

Conclusion

Pui Shaager Chorchori is a beautiful representation of North East Indian cuisine, combining the earthy flavors of Malabar spinach with the sweetness of seasonal vegetables. This dish not only offers a comforting experience but also brings vibrant colors to your plate, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe as a side dish, and savor the wholesome goodness it brings to your table.