Spicy Thakkali Gotsu | Tangy Tomato Curry for Ven Pongal & Dosa
Thakkali Gotsu (Tomato Gotsu) Recipe | Spicy & Tangy Tomato Gravy
Description:
Thakkali Gotsu, also known as Tomato Gotsu or Thakkali Curry, is a vibrant, spicy, and tangy tomato gravy that makes for an excellent accompaniment with breakfast or as a side dish for various South Indian meals. This quick and easy recipe, featuring a delightful blend of tomatoes, tamarind, and aromatic spices, can be served with Ven Pongal, Khichdi, Paratha, or Dosa. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures, bringing a zesty twist to your meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig (roughly torn) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (pounded or chopped) |
| Pearl onions (Sambar onions) | 1 cup (quartered) |
| Tomatoes | 4 (roughly chopped) |
| Tamarind | 15 grams (soaked in warm water) |
| Sambar powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Soak the tamarind in warm water for about 20 minutes to soften it. After soaking, extract the tamarind water to obtain approximately 1/2 cup of thick tamarind extract. -
Prepare the Tomatoes:
Roughly chop the tomatoes and pulse them in a mixer or blender. We’re aiming for a chunky consistency here, not a fine puree, to add texture to the dish. -
Heat the Oil:
In a pressure cooker, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. This step infuses the oil with a deep, aromatic flavor. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the torn curry leaves, garlic, and quartered pearl onions to the cooker. Sauté them until the onions turn soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. -
Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the crushed tomatoes, tamarind water, turmeric powder, sambar powder, salt, and jaggery to the cooker. Stir everything together to combine the spices and ingredients thoroughly. -
Pressure Cook:
Close the pressure cooker and cook the mixture for 2 whistles. The tomatoes and spices will meld together, creating a rich and flavorful base for the curry. -
Release the Pressure:
After 2 whistles, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Once the pressure is completely released, carefully open the lid and stir the curry. -
Taste and Adjust:
Give the curry a taste and adjust the salt or spices as necessary. You can add a little more jaggery if you prefer a sweeter tone or more tamarind for extra tanginess. -
Serve:
Transfer the freshly prepared Tomato Gotsu (Thakkali Curry) into a serving bowl. Serve hot as an accompaniment to Ven Pongal, Khichdi, Paratha, or Dosa for a fulfilling and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Thakkali Gotsu:
- Consistency: If you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add a little water to the curry after pressure cooking and simmer it for a few minutes to adjust the consistency.
- Flavor Balance: Tamarind provides tang, while jaggery adds a subtle sweetness. Adjust both to your taste for the ideal balance.
- Spice Level: The sambar powder and mustard seeds bring a mild heat. For a spicier version, you can add finely chopped green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
Enjoy your Thakkali Gotsu with a hot plate of Ven Pongal or a crispy Dosa for a quintessential South Indian breakfast. Pair it with South Indian Filter Coffee for the perfect start to your day!
