Kathirikai Poondu Pirattal Recipe: South Indian Style Brinjal Stir Fry with Garlic

Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Chettinad cuisine with the delectable Kathirikai Poondu Pirattal, a sumptuous South Indian stir-fry featuring long green brinjal (eggplant) and aromatic garlic. This dish embodies the essence of traditional Tamil Nadu cooking, showcasing the rich combination of spices and vegetables that is both satisfying and comforting, perfect for any lunch spread or special occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients required for this delightful stir-fry:

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Time

Instructions

To create the Kathirikai Poondu Pirattal, follow these detailed steps that guide you through the preparation process, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor:

1. Prep the Brinjal: Start by chopping the long green brinjals into long strips and immerse them in a bowl of salt water. This step is crucial as it helps prevent oxidation, keeping the vibrant green color intact and reducing bitterness.

2. Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil over medium heat. The choice of oil is important as it carries the flavors without overpowering them.

3. Sputter the Seeds: Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1 teaspoon of split white urad dal. Allow them to sputter and cook until the urad dal turns a golden brown, releasing its nutty aroma into the oil.

4. Add Aromatics: To the pan, introduce a pinch of asafoetida (hing), a sprig of fresh curry leaves, and a dried red chilli. Sauté these ingredients for a few seconds to release their flavors, making sure not to burn them.

5. Cook the Onions and Garlic: Next, add the finely chopped onions and the garlic halves to the pan. Sauté them together until the onions turn light brown and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step should take about a minute.

6. Incorporate the Tomato: Once the onions and garlic are well-cooked, add the chopped tomato to the pan. Cook this mixture until the tomatoes soften and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.

7. Add the Brinjals: Now, remove the brinjals from the salt water, drain them, and add them to the pan. Season with salt to taste, stirring well to coat the brinjals with the aromatic mixture.

8. Cook with Steam: To facilitate even cooking, sprinkle a little water over the brinjals and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the brinjals to cook on low heat for about 10 minutes. This will help them soften and absorb all the wonderful flavors.

9. Season with Spices: Once the brinjals are tender, add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1 tablespoon of sambar powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the spices, allowing the dish to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

10. Final Adjustments: After the cooking time, taste the Kathirikai Poondu Pirattal to check for seasoning. Adjust the salt and spices as per your preference.

11. Serve Hot: Transfer the finished Kathirikai Poondu Pirattal to a serving bowl and serve it hot.

Serving Suggestions

This flavorful stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, complementing it perfectly with side dishes like Chow Chow Kootu and Village Style Pepper Rasam. For a complete and delightful South Indian lunch experience, consider serving it alongside Sabudana fryums for an added crunch.

Conclusion

Kathirikai Poondu Pirattal not only showcases the wonderful culinary heritage of South India but also allows you to enjoy the healthy benefits of brinjals and garlic in a delicious and accessible manner. With its balance of flavors and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, adding a touch of Chettinad flair to your dining table. Enjoy every bite of this delightful recipe, and let the flavors transport you to the bustling kitchens of Tamil Nadu!