Nellor Kathirikai – Nellor Brinjal Fry Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey where we explore the vibrant flavors of Andhra cuisine with the irresistible Nellor Kathirikai—a delicious brinjal (eggplant) fry that promises to tickle your taste buds. This dish, characterized by its fragrant spices and the nuttiness of roasted dal, pairs perfectly with steamed rice or flatbreads, making it a staple for any meal. Let’s dive into this aromatic recipe that brings together the rich traditions of Indian cooking.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves (torn) | 2 sprigs |
| Small Brinjal (quarter) | 10 (soaked in salt water) |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon + to taste |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 4 |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 2 |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 180 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 15 minutes |
| Cooking | 30 minutes |
| Total | 45 minutes |
Servings
This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or a gathering.
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: Andhra
- Course: Main Course
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prep the Ingredients:
To kick off your Nellor Brinjal Fry adventure, begin by preparing all your ingredients. Soak the quartered brinjals in salt water to prevent discoloration. This simple step will ensure your dish looks as vibrant as it tastes. -
Roast the Brinjals:
In a medium-sized pan, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and torn curry leaves. Allow the mustard seeds to crackle and release their aroma, a signal that it’s time for the brinjals to join the party. Drain the soaked brinjals and add them to the pan along with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the brinjals are well-coated. Cover the pan and let them cook until they are roasted and tender, about 10-15 minutes. Once done, set this aside. -
Prepare the Nellor Masala:
Next, we move on to creating the flavorful Nellor masala. In the same pan, add the chana dal, coriander seeds, and dry red chillies. Roast them on low heat, stirring frequently until the dal turns golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances the nuttiness of the dal, contributing a robust flavor to the dish. Once roasted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. -
Sauté the Onions:
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of sesame oil, followed by the thinly sliced onions. Sauté the onions until they soften and turn a light brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the onions are caramelized and aromatic, stir in the grated coconut and continue to sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Blend the Masala:
Transfer the roasted dal mixture and the sautéed onion-coconut mixture to a blender. Add 1/4 cup of water and blend until you achieve a smooth paste. This flavorful masala will be the heart of your Nellor Brinjal Fry, infusing it with depth and richness. -
Combine and Simmer:
Add the freshly blended masala to the roasted brinjals along with 1/2 cup of water. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the brinjals are coated with the aromatic masala. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully. -
Final Touches:
Before serving, taste and adjust the salt and chili levels according to your preference. Once everything is well combined and heated through, transfer the Nellor Brinjal Fry to a serving bowl.
Serving Suggestions
The Nellor Brinjal Fry is best served hot, alongside a steaming bowl of Steamed Rice, or you can enjoy it with Palak Tovve (spinach dal) or simply with Tawa Parathas. The vibrant flavors of this dish complement any Indian meal and are sure to please your guests or family members.
Conclusion
As you savor the delightful flavors of Nellor Kathirikai, let the experience transport you to the heart of Andhra cuisine, where each bite tells a story of tradition and love for food. This dish not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with fellow food enthusiasts!
This comprehensive guide to making Nellor Kathirikai is designed to inspire and facilitate your culinary journey. Happy cooking!
