Kerala Tomato Fry Recipe – A Simple & Flavorful Kerala Dish
Kerala Tomato Fry is a quick and delightful vegetarian dish, bursting with the rich and aromatic flavors of Kerala cuisine. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner, as it pairs beautifully with dosa, idli, phulka, or even plain steamed rice. Traditionally, Kerala Tomato Fry is served as a side dish alongside Beetroot Sambar and Rice, making it a comforting meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
Recipe Overview
| Cuisine | Kerala Recipes |
|---|---|
| Course | Dinner |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Ingredients
Below is a detailed list of the ingredients needed to prepare Kerala Tomato Fry.
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 4, chopped |
| Oil | As needed |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 tbsp |
| Dried Red Chillies | 3, broken |
| Curry Leaves | 5 |
| Onion | 2, thinly sliced |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 tbsp |
| Green Chillies | 2, chopped |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | ½ tbsp |
| Turmeric Powder | ½ tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander Leaves | 2 tbsp, finely chopped |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 310 mg |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare Kerala Tomato Fry:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. |
| 2 | Add mustard seeds and dried red chillies. When the mustard seeds begin to crackle, add curry leaves and green chillies. Stir for 30 seconds. |
| 3 | Add sliced onions and sauté for about 2–3 minutes, or until the onions become soft and golden brown. |
| 4 | Add ginger garlic paste and cook for another minute, ensuring the raw smell disappears. |
| 5 | Lower the heat slightly and add Kashmiri red chilli powder and turmeric powder. Mix well to combine the spices with the sautéed onions. |
| 6 | Add the chopped tomatoes and stir everything together. Cover the pan with a lid and let the tomatoes cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. |
| 7 | Once the tomatoes have softened and the mixture turns slightly thick, add salt to taste and mix thoroughly. |
| 8 | Cook for another minute to ensure the flavors meld together. |
| 9 | Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. |
Serving Suggestions
Kerala Tomato Fry is a versatile side dish that enhances any meal. Serve it with:
- Dosa or Idli: A traditional South Indian breakfast combination.
- Phulka: Soft Indian flatbreads make for a light and fulfilling dinner.
- Steamed Rice: Pair with Beetroot Sambar or a mild dal for a comforting meal.
Chef’s Tips
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes bring out the best flavors in this dish.
- Adjust the Spice: For a milder version, reduce the amount of green chilies or Kashmiri red chili powder.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) along with the mustard seeds for an extra layer of aroma.
Kerala Tomato Fry is a perfect blend of simplicity and traditional Kerala flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a quick meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy every bite with love!
