Sweet & Spicy Kadala Curry (Kerala Style)
Description:
Sweet & Spicy Kadala Curry is a popular Kerala dish where black chickpeas are cooked in a rich coconut gravy. This curry has a unique tangy-sweet flavor thanks to the use of coconut milk and tamarind paste, offering a delightful combination of spices and sweetness.
Cuisine: Kerala
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black chickpeas (soaked for 8 hours)
- 1 onion (sliced thinly)
- 4 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 2 green chilies (sliced thinly)
- 1/2 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp tamarind paste (soaked in water)
- 1 tbsp jaggery
- Salt to taste
- Oil for cooking
Preparation Time: 480 minutes (soaking time for chickpeas)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
-
Cook the Chickpeas:
- In a pressure cooker, add the soaked black chickpeas with 2 cups of water and salt.
- Cook for 3-4 whistles, then reduce the heat and let them cook for another 15 minutes on low heat.
- Once done, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Set the cooked chickpeas aside.
-
Prepare the Tamarind Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the tamarind paste with 3 tablespoons of water. Set this aside for later use.
-
Cook the Base:
- Heat oil in a pan and add the sliced onions, crushed garlic, and green chilies. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
-
Add the Spices and Gravy:
- Once the onions are soft, add curry leaves, tamarind mixture, tomato puree, jaggery, salt, and coconut milk.
- Cook this mixture for about 1 minute.
-
Add the Ground Spices:
- Add red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder.
- Simmer the curry on low heat for 10-12 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
-
Finish and Serve:
- Once the curry has thickened and all ingredients are well combined, turn off the heat.
- Serve the sweet & spicy kadala curry with Lachha Paratha or steamed rice. It pairs wonderfully with a side of cabbage and carrot thoran.
Enjoy this Kerala delicacy that brings a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors to your meal!
