Dondakkai Puli Curry (South Indian Style Tindora Curry) Recipe
Introduction
Dondakkai Puli Curry, also known as South Indian Style Tindora Curry, is a traditional recipe passed down through generations. This flavorful curry brings together the delightful taste of tindora (also known as dondakaya or kovakkai) with tangy tamarind and aromatic spices. It is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients, this curry makes for a quick and satisfying addition to your lunch box. Its mild heat and zesty flavor make it perfect when paired with steamed rice or sambar for a wholesome meal.
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tindora (Dondakaya/Kovakkai) | 150 grams |
| Black Urad Dal (Split) | 3 tablespoons |
| Dry Red Chillies | 5 whole |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Tamarind Paste | 2 teaspoons (adjust to taste) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon (for roasting) |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil (for tempering) | 2 teaspoons |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Instructions
1. Prep the Tindora (Dondakaya/Kovakkai)
Start by washing the tindora thoroughly. Slice each tindora into small pieces—preferably quartered and cut into triangular shapes. This ensures that the pieces cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
2. Soak the Tamarind
Clean and soak the tamarind in a small bowl with enough water to cover it. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to soften. This will help release the tamarind’s tangy flavor.
3. Cook the Tindora
Boil the chopped tindora in a pot with sufficient water. Allow it to cook until the tindora is tender but still retains a slight bite. Do not let it become mushy. Once done, drain the water and set the cooked tindora aside.
4. Roast the Spices
Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, dry red chillies, and black urad dal. Stir fry the mixture for about a minute until the spices release their fragrance, and the dal turns golden brown.
5. Grind the Paste
Turn off the heat and let the roasted spices cool down. Once cooled, add them to a mixer grinder along with the soaked tamarind, turmeric powder, and salt. Add a little bit of the tamarind soaking water to help grind it into a smooth paste.
6. Combine the Paste with the Tindora
In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled tindora with the ground spice and tamarind paste. Stir well to ensure that the curry is evenly coated with the aromatic paste.
7. Prepare the Tempering
For the tempering, heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a small saucepan. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them pop and splutter for a few seconds, then pour this tempering over the tindora curry. Mix well.
8. Serve
Your Dondakkai Puli Curry is ready to serve! Enjoy it with steaming hot rice, Keerai Sambar (spinach lentil curry), and crispy Elai Vadam (fried rice crisps) for a complete South Indian meal.
Tips for the Perfect Dondakkai Puli Curry
- Tamarind: Adjust the amount of tamarind paste based on how tangy you like your curry. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less tamarind paste.
- Spice Level: You can increase or decrease the number of dry red chillies to match your preferred spice level. Adding more chillies will give the curry an extra kick.
- Cooking Tindora: Be careful not to overcook the tindora, as it should remain slightly firm and not turn mushy.
- Storage: This curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 125 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugars | 3 g |
Dondakkai Puli Curry offers a wonderful combination of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. It is not only an easy dish to prepare but also nutritious and packed with the goodness of fresh vegetables and spices. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend, this curry is sure to become a staple in your home. So, give it a try and bring the flavors of Tamil Nadu to your table!
