If you’re looking for a flavorful and healthy addition to your meals, ridge gourd chutney is a fantastic choice. Known as Peerkangai in Tamil, Heerekai in Kannada, and Turai in Hindi, this chutney not only packs a punch in taste but also offers numerous health benefits. It’s fiber-rich, low-fat, and can be prepared quickly, making it a staple in South Indian cuisine. Each region boasts its own version, but the essence remains the same: a delicious, versatile side that pairs wonderfully with various dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium ridge gourd, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion (optional)
- 2 tomatoes
- 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon tamarind (if needed for sourness)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (for tempering)
- Mustard seeds and urad dal for tempering (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by heating oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter, then add urad dal if using.
- Sauté the chopped onions until they turn translucent, then add the ridge gourd.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the ridge gourd softens.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, green chilies, and salt, mixing everything well.
- Cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down and blend with the other ingredients.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer to a blender.
- Blend until you reach your desired consistency, adding water if necessary.
- Adjust the sourness with tamarind if preferred, and blend again.
- Serve with hot rice, idly, dosa, or even on bread!
Tips:
- Use organic vegetables to enhance the health benefits.
- Feel free to adjust the spiciness by varying the number of green chilies.
- This chutney can be refrigerated for a few days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some roasted peanuts while blending.
In conclusion, this ridge gourd chutney is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it with steaming rice, idly, dosa, or as a spread on bread, it adds a delightful flavor to your meals. So, why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you! And don’t forget to watch more playlists for exciting recipes and subscribe to VanithaShri’s Kitchen for the latest updates!
