Erissery or pumpkin and lentil curry

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 Erissery is a traditional Kerala dish made with pumpkin and lentils cooked in a flavorful coconut-based gravy. It is a delicious and nutritious curry that pairs well with rice. Here's how you can prepare Pumpkin and Lentil Erissery:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup split pigeon peas (toor dal)
  • 1/2 cup grated coconut
  • 2-3 shallots or small onions, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 sprig curry leaves
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the split pigeon peas (toor dal) and cook them in a pressure cooker with water and a pinch of turmeric powder until soft and mushy. Set aside.
  2. In a separate pan, add the cubed pumpkin along with a little water and cook until tender. Once cooked, mash the pumpkin lightly with a spoon. Set aside.
  3. In a blender or mixer, grind the grated coconut along with shallots or small onions into a fine paste. Set aside.
  4. Heat coconut oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat.
  5. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the curry leaves and slit green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds.
  6. Add the coconut-onion paste to the pan and sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
  7. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder (optional), and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Mix well.
  8. Add the cooked and mashed pumpkin to the pan. Stir and mix it with the coconut paste.
  9. Add the cooked split pigeon peas (toor dal) to the pan and mix everything together. If the consistency is too thick, you can add a little water to adjust.
  10. Add salt to taste and let the erissery simmer for 5-10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to blend together.
  11. Once done, remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice.

Erissery is known for its creamy coconut flavor and the combination of pumpkin and lentils. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dish as part of your meal!


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