Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal Recipe (Potatoes in Tangy Lemon and Ginger Gravy)
Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal, a cherished Tamil Brahmin dish, is a flavorful side that pairs perfectly with puris, chapattis, or phulkas. While potatoes may not have always been on the top of my list, this dishβs combination of tangy lemon, aromatic ginger, and spices has transformed me into a true fan. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way the flavors meld together. The potatoes absorb the lemony tang and ginger notes, creating a savory yet refreshing experience thatβs hard to resist.
Made with minimal oil and carefully balanced spices, Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal is a delicious and healthy dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Whether you are a fan of traditional Tamil dishes or just looking for a wholesome side, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Ingredients for Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo), boiled & cut into cubes | 3 medium-sized potatoes |
| Green Chillies, finely chopped | 2 chillies |
| Ginger, grated | 1-inch piece |
| Curry Leaves, finely chopped | 5-6 leaves |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania), finely chopped | 1 small bunch |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Instructions for Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal
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Cook the Potatoes: Start by boiling the potatoes until they are soft. Once boiled, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. If you prefer, you can also cook them in a pressure cooker for quicker results.
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Prepare the Spices: Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and the split urad dal. Allow them to crackle, and wait for the dal to turn a light golden brown. This step helps release the essential flavors from the mustard seeds and dal.
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Add Aromatics and Spices: To the tempered mustard seeds and urad dal, add the grated ginger, finely chopped curry leaves, and chopped green chillies. Stir them in and allow them to cook for a couple of minutes, releasing their aromatic flavors. Then, sprinkle in the turmeric powder and stir well.
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Combine the Potatoes: Add the boiled and cubed potatoes to the pan, along with a pinch of salt and 1 cup of water. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients, ensuring the potatoes are well-coated with the spices. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The consistency should resemble a mash, with the potatoes absorbing all the spices and water.
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Finish with Lemon and Coriander: Once the potatoes are well-spiced, stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves. The lemon juice will add a refreshing tang, balancing out the spices perfectly. Taste and adjust the salt and spice levels according to your preference.
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Serve: Serve the Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal hot, paired with soft phulkas for a wholesome and satisfying meal. This dish also goes wonderfully with puris or chapattis for a traditional Tamil Brahmin feast.
Tips for the Perfect Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal
- Potato Texture: For the perfect texture, make sure the potatoes are soft but not mushy. They should retain some shape but easily absorb the spices and gravy.
- Adjust Spices: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more green chillies or a pinch of red chilli powder to kick up the heat.
- Lemon Variations: If you want a stronger citrus flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon juice. Some people also like to add a pinch of jaggery to balance out the tanginess with a hint of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- With Phulkas: This dish is best enjoyed with soft, warm phulkas. The fluffy texture of the phulka complements the tangy and spicy flavors of the masiyal.
- With Puri or Chapatti: Alternatively, you can pair it with puris for a traditional, indulgent meal, or with chapattis for a lighter option.
Urulai Kizhangu Masiyal is a timeless, comforting dish thatβs perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive meals. Its simplicity, combined with the bold flavors of lemon and ginger, makes it a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe, and let the flavors transport you to the heart of Tamil Nadu!
