Pudalangai Thogayal Recipe (Snake Gourd Chutney Recipe)
Pudalangai Thogayal, also known as Snake Gourd Chutney, is a simple yet flavorful side dish hailing from the vibrant cuisine of Tamil Nadu. This chutney is crafted from the long, slender snake gourd, which is commonly used in a variety of dal preparations and poriyals. The chutney has a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a perfect accompaniment for breakfast dishes like dosas, idlis, or even rice. It’s an ideal addition to your meal, not only for its incredible taste but also for its healthy benefits, especially when paired with diabetic-friendly foods.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Snake Gourd (Pudalangai) | 1, cut into small pieces with skin |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 2 teaspoons |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 2 teaspoons |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 2 teaspoons |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, grated |
| Tamarind Water | 1 cup |
| Green Chillies | 3, sliced |
| Salt | To taste |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/8 teaspoon |
| For Seasoning (Tempering) | |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 broken piece |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, crushed |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instructions
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Tempering the Dal & Seeds:
- Begin by heating a kadai (wok) or a deep frying pan. Add a small amount of oil and heat it gently.
- Once the oil is heated, add the split white urad dal, chana dal, sesame seeds, and cumin seeds. Sauté the mixture for a few minutes until the dals and seeds are lightly toasted, releasing their lovely aroma.
-
-
Cooking the Snake Gourd:
- Add the cut snake gourd pieces, green chilies, and grated ginger into the kadai. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, or until the snake gourd is cooked through and soft. This step ensures that the gourd releases its natural flavors into the dish.
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Adding Tamarind Water & Simmering:
- Once the snake gourd is cooked, pour in the tamarind water and sprinkle some salt to taste. Stir the mixture well and let it cook on a medium flame.
- Allow the tamarind water to reduce and thicken slightly, which should take around 8-10 minutes. This helps concentrate the flavors and enhances the chutney’s richness.
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Blending the Chutney:
- Once the mixture has cooled down, transfer it to a mixer and grind it into a smooth paste. The consistency should be thick and slightly coarse, giving the chutney its delightful texture.
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Tempering the Chutney:
- In a small skillet, heat a little oil for the tempering. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, red chili powder, split white urad dal, garlic, and curry leaves.
- Gently fry the ingredients until they turn golden and aromatic. Once done, pour this tempering over the prepared snake gourd chutney.
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Serving:
- Serve the Pudalangai Thogayal (Snake Gourd Chutney) immediately with Mangalorean-style Bella Metthe Dosa (Jaggery & Fenugreek Seed Pancakes) or any other breakfast dish of your choice. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious chutney that adds both flavor and health benefits to your meal!
Allergen Information
This recipe contains sesame seeds, urad dal, and chana dal, which are common allergens. If you or someone you are cooking for has allergies to legumes or sesame, please substitute them with suitable alternatives like sunflower seeds or other dals. Always double-check the ingredients for individual dietary restrictions.
Dietary Preferences
- Diabetic Friendly: This recipe is suitable for people with diabetes due to the low glycemic nature of the ingredients, especially the snake gourd, which is known to help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Vegetarian: This recipe contains no meat products, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: No gluten-containing ingredients are used in this recipe, so it is suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Nutritional Benefits
Snake gourd is a powerhouse of nutrients, providing ample amounts of vitamins, minerals, and fiber while being low in calories. This chutney is not only a tasty addition to your meals but also a health-boosting condiment. It can aid in digestion, support hydration, and promote overall wellness. The addition of tamarind adds a tangy richness, while the tempering of spices like cumin, mustard, and curry leaves enhances the flavors and provides digestive benefits.
Tips and Advise
- For a Smoother Chutney: If you prefer a smoother chutney, feel free to add a bit of water while grinding the mixture to achieve your desired texture.
- Adjust Spice Levels: The number of green chilies can be adjusted according to your preference for spiciness. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or omit them entirely.
- Serving Suggestions: This chutney pairs well with a variety of South Indian breakfast dishes such as dosas, idlis, pongal, or even steamed rice. Its sweet-tangy flavor profile also makes it a perfect complement to curries and stews.
- Storage: You can store Pudalangai Thogayal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.
Conclusion
Pudalangai Thogayal (Snake Gourd Chutney) is a simple yet flavorful dish that celebrates the essence of South Indian cuisine. By incorporating the nutritious snake gourd, it brings a unique balance of sweetness and tang to your meals. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast accompaniment or a vibrant side dish to complement your main course, this chutney is sure to delight your taste buds while offering health benefits. Enjoy it with a warm dosa or any meal of your choice for a complete and satisfying experience.
