Tomato Gotsu: A South Indian Delight for Breakfast or Lunch
Tomato Gotsu is a delicious, tangy, and spicy dish that can bring a burst of flavor to your meals. Originating from South India, this dish is typically served as a side with Idli, Dosa, Pongal, or Paratha, making it a versatile choice for breakfast or lunch. With its combination of tomatoes and aromatic spices, Tomato Gotsu is a delightful treat for anyone who loves bold, flavorful vegetarian dishes. The dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy mornings or a satisfying midday meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 2, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 4, finely chopped |
| Green Chilli | 1, slit or chopped |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sambar Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions
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Heat Oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
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Add Mustard Seeds and Urad Dal: Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1/2 teaspoon of black urad dal (split) to the pan. Let it cook for about 15 seconds, allowing the mustard seeds to splutter and the dal to brown lightly.
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Season with Asafoetida and Curry Leaves: After 15 seconds, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and a sprig of curry leaves. Stir well and cook for another 30 seconds to release the aromatic flavors of the curry leaves and asafoetida.
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Cook the Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan. Sauté the onions until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Tomatoes: Now, add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook the tomatoes for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and blend with the other ingredients.
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Add Spices and Water: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of coriander powder and 2 teaspoons of sambar powder. Add 1 cup of water and salt to taste. Stir everything together until the spices are well combined with the tomatoes.
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Simmer: Cover the pan and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pan.
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Serve: After 10 minutes, turn off the heat. Your flavorful Tomato Gotsu is now ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions
Tomato Gotsu can be served with a variety of dishes to enhance its taste:
- Idli: Soft, steamed rice cakes are a perfect accompaniment to the tangy and spicy Tomato Gotsu.
- Dosa: Crispy and thin rice pancakes pair beautifully with this aromatic curry.
- Pongal: A comforting rice and lentil dish that complements the flavors of Tomato Gotsu.
- Paratha: A flaky and soft flatbread that soaks up the flavorful Gotsu.
For an added touch, serve Tomato Gotsu with Cucumber and Green Chilli Raita on the side to balance out the spices and give a refreshing contrast to the dish.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Sugars | 6g |
Tomato Gotsu is a nutritious dish that provides a healthy dose of vitamins, especially from the tomatoes, while the spices give it a unique depth of flavor. This South Indian recipe is perfect for vegetarians and those looking to add more vibrant flavors to their meals.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast or a quick lunch, Tomato Gotsu brings a touch of traditional South Indian cuisine to your table with ease. Enjoy this wholesome, flavorful dish and share the experience with family and friends!
