Yellow Cucumber Pachadi Recipe: A Refreshing South Indian Side Dish
Yellow Cucumber Pachadi is a tangy and flavorful South Indian side dish that brings together a beautiful mix of spices and textures. The fresh taste of yellow cucumber pairs wonderfully with the fragrant tempering of mustard seeds, fenugreek, and red chillies, creating a vibrant, refreshing dish. This pachadi is the perfect accompaniment to a simple meal, especially when paired with mixed vegetable sambar and steamed rice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mangalorean Cucumber | 1 (medium-sized) |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Fenugreek Seeds (Methi Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 5 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Tamarind | 2 small pieces |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cucumber:
Begin by peeling the Mangalorean cucumber. After washing it thoroughly, cut it in half and remove the seeds. Then, chop the cucumber into small, fine pieces. -
Temper the Spices:
In a kadai (or deep pan), heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and masoor dal. Let these ingredients splutter and turn golden. Next, add the dry red chillies and asafoetida (hing), frying them briefly until the spices release their fragrance. -
Cool the Tempering:
Remove the pan from the heat and allow the tempering to cool to room temperature. -
Prepare the Spice Masala:
In a blender jar, add half of the cooled tempering, along with salt, turmeric powder, and tamarind pieces (cut into smaller bits). Grind everything to a semi-coarse powder. Be careful not to add water to the mixture. -
Combine the Cucumber and Spice Masala:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped yellow cucumber pieces with the freshly ground spice masala. Add the remaining tempering (which you reserved earlier) and mix well to ensure the spice mixture is evenly coated over the cucumber pieces. -
Storage:
This Yellow Cucumber Pachadi can stay fresh for up to 4-5 days when refrigerated. It is perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed over multiple days. -
Serving Suggestion:
Serve the Yellow Cucumber Pachadi with a side of Mixed Vegetable Sambar and steaming hot rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
This recipe for Yellow Cucumber Pachadi not only delivers on flavor but also brings out the essence of traditional South Indian cooking with its fragrant spices and cooling cucumber base. The dish pairs perfectly with simple, comforting meals, making it an ideal addition to any South Indian-inspired spread. Enjoy this easy-to-make, nutritious side dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
