Khatta Meetha Petha Recipe (Yellow Pumpkin Sabzi)
Introduction:
Khatta Meetha Petha, also known as sweet and sour yellow pumpkin sabzi, is a simple and flavorful dish from Indian cuisine that can be prepared in no time. The natural sweetness of the pumpkin is complemented beautifully by the tangy kick of dry mango powder (amchur) and the aromatic spices of fennel seeds and black pepper. This dish makes for a perfect side to any Indian meal and is especially delightful when served with phulkas, dal tadka, and raita. The combination of spices, sweetness, and tang in Khatta Meetha Petha is sure to excite your taste buds and make it a beloved addition to your weekday meals.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 1 (medium-sized) |
| Green Chillies | 4 (finely chopped) |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1 tablespoon (finely chopped) |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
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Prep the Pumpkin: Start by peeling the kaddu (yellow pumpkin), removing the seeds, and chopping it into cubes of approximately 3/4 inch in size. Finely chop the green chillies and set them aside.
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Roast the Spices: Heat a kadai or a skillet over medium heat. Add the fennel seeds and black peppercorns, dry-roasting them for a few minutes until they release a fragrant aroma. Once roasted, transfer them to a bowl and let them cool for a moment.
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Cook the Pumpkin: In the same skillet, add the oil and heat it on medium. Once the oil is hot, add the pumpkin cubes. Stir them well, adding salt to taste, and cook for a few minutes until the pumpkin begins to soften.
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Add Flavorings: Reduce the heat to low. Add sugar, salt (as per your taste), and the chopped green chillies to the softened pumpkin. Stir well to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pumpkin cook thoroughly until it is fully softened and tender.
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Grind the Spices: While the pumpkin is cooking, use a mortar and pestle (or a dry spice grinder) to grind the roasted fennel seeds and black peppercorns into a coarse powder.
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Final Touches: Once the pumpkin is soft, remove the lid from the skillet. Add the freshly ground fennel-pepper powder and the amchur (dry mango powder) to the pumpkin. Stir everything together, adjusting the salt and spice levels according to your preference. Let the mixture cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped coriander leaves for a fresh burst of flavor. Your Khatta Meetha Petha is now ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
Khatta Meetha Petha pairs wonderfully with soft phulkas, a bowl of dal tadka, and a refreshing raita. This comforting dish is also an excellent option for packing in your lunchbox, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal. For an extra touch, a glass of buttermilk alongside this dish is a perfect way to complete the meal.
Allergen Information:
- This recipe is naturally free from common allergens such as dairy, nuts, and gluten. However, be mindful of any individual sensitivities to the spices used in this recipe.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This dish is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans (depending on the oil used).
- Gluten-Free: Khatta Meetha Petha contains no wheat or gluten ingredients.
- Nut-Free: There are no nuts in this recipe, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Tips and Variations:
- If you prefer a spicier version of this dish, feel free to increase the number of green chillies or add a pinch of red chilli powder.
- For an extra tangy flavor, you can substitute amchur with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- If you enjoy a more aromatic flavor, you can add a pinch of cumin powder or roasted cumin powder towards the end of cooking.
Conclusion:
Khatta Meetha Petha is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with tangy amchur and aromatic fennel seeds. Perfect for any busy weekday lunch, this dish can easily become a favorite in your home. Pair it with your choice of bread or rice and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that will bring the flavors of India to your table. Whether youβre new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned cook, Khatta Meetha Petha is a must-try for anyone who enjoys delicious, balanced meals with minimal effort.
