North Indian Style Green Raw Papaya Curry Recipe
Green raw papaya, with its subtle flavor and soft, tender texture when cooked, makes for an excellent base in a variety of curry dishes. The North Indian style green raw papaya curry is a hearty, aromatic dish that combines the sweetness of the papaya with the savory notes of aromatic spices, creating a flavorful and healthy side dish. Whether served with Tawa Paratha, Phulka, or even simple steamed rice, this curry is sure to impress your family and friends. The dish comes together quickly in a pressure cooker, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or festive meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Papaya | 500 grams |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 |
| Fresh Ginger (chopped) | 1 inch |
| Garlic Cloves (chopped) | 4 |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped) | 2 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Protein | ~2 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~32 g |
| Fat | ~5 g |
| Fiber | ~5 g |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
| Potassium | ~350 mg |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Total Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Instructions
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Heat the Oil: Start by heating a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of sunflower oil, allowing it to heat up.
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Tempering: Once the oil is hot, add fennel seeds (saunf). Allow the fennel seeds to crackle, releasing their aromatic fragrance. This step enhances the flavor profile of the curry.
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Sauté Ginger and Garlic: Add the finely chopped ginger and garlic to the cooker. Sauté them for about a minute or until the raw smell disappears and the mixture softens.
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Onions: Add the chopped onions to the cooker and sauté them until they turn translucent. This will help them soften and meld with the other flavors.
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Tomatoes and Spices: Add the chopped tomatoes to the cooker, followed by a pinch of salt. Continue to sauté until the tomatoes break down and become mushy, forming a base for the curry. Once the tomatoes have softened, add the red chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Stir well to incorporate the spices into the tomato-onion mixture.
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Add the Green Papaya: Now, add the chopped green raw papaya to the cooker. Stir it into the spiced mixture, ensuring it’s well coated with the masala. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
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Water and Pressure Cook: Pour in about 1 cup of water, stir everything well, and then cover the cooker with its lid. Pressure cook the curry for about 3 whistles. After 3 whistles, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Finishing Touches: Once the pressure has released, carefully open the lid. The curry should be ready with a rich, flavorful consistency. Stir in the chopped fresh coriander leaves, adding a burst of freshness to the curry.
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Serving: Serve the North Indian Style Green Raw Papaya Curry hot, paired with Tawa Paratha, Phulka, or a simple bowl of steamed rice. This dish makes an excellent side that complements any Indian main course.
Tips for the Perfect Green Raw Papaya Curry:
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Papaya Selection: Make sure to use raw, green papaya, which is firm and unripe. This type of papaya holds its shape when cooked and absorbs the curry flavors beautifully.
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Spice Adjustments: You can adjust the spice levels to suit your preference. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of red chili powder. For an extra zing, add a bit of garam masala at the end for added depth.
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Consistency: The curry can be made slightly more soupy or thicker depending on your preference. Adjust the amount of water accordingly during the cooking process.
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Vegan Option: This curry is naturally vegan, but ensure you are using oil rather than ghee for cooking if you are strictly following a vegan diet.
Serving Suggestions
This North Indian Style Green Raw Papaya Curry is best served with flatbreads like Tawa Paratha or Phulka. You can also enjoy it with a bowl of steamed basmati rice. To complete the meal, consider pairing it with a refreshing raita or a tangy pickle on the side for that authentic Indian dining experience.
Final Thoughts
The North Indian Style Green Raw Papaya Curry is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy this underutilized vegetable. Packed with spices and flavors, it’s a great addition to any meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this curry promises to be a family favorite. Enjoy this hearty dish and experience the rich culinary traditions of North India in your very own kitchen.
