Parangikai Pachadi (Pumpkin)

25m
Serves 1
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Directions

  1. 1Heat approximately 500 ml of coconut oil in a wok.
  2. 2Add about 5 tablespoons of mustard seeds to the hot oil and let them pop.
  3. 3Add about 5 tablespoons of urad dal and fry until it starts changing color.
  4. 4Add about 500 grams of sliced onions.
  5. 5Add a little salt to the onions to release their moisture and cook until translucent.
  6. 6Add about 40-50 pieces of dried chili, depending on desired spiciness.
  7. 7Add 3-4 sprigs of curry leaves.
  8. 8Add about 4 tablespoons of ginger paste and 8 tablespoons of garlic paste.
  9. 9Cook until the raw smell of ginger and garlic dissipates.
  10. 10Add 6 kg of diced pumpkin, with the skin on.
  11. 11Add about 3 tablespoons of turmeric.
  12. 12Add about 5 tablespoons of chili powder and mix well, toasting the chili powder slightly.
  13. 13Add tamarind extract.
  14. 14Add an equal amount of water.
  15. 15Cover and cook for about 15 minutes.
  16. 16Test the pumpkin; it should be about 60% cooked.
  17. 17Add a bit more salt to taste.
  18. 18Add 150-200 grams of Gula Melaka (palm sugar) or brown sugar.
  19. 19Add asafoetida (perungayam/hing).
  20. 20Cook for a total of 25 minutes, ensuring some pumpkin pieces remain whole and some break down.

Ingredients

  • 500 ml Coconut oil
  • 5 tablespoons Mustard seeds
  • 5 tablespoons Urad dal
  • 500 grams Onions
  • Salt
  • 40 pieces Dried chili
  • 3 sprigs Curry leaves
  • 4 tablespoons Ginger paste
  • 8 tablespoons Garlic paste
  • 6 kg Pumpkin
  • 3 tablespoons Turmeric
  • 5 tablespoons Chili powder
  • Tamarind extract
  • Water
  • 150 grams Gula Melaka (palm sugar)
  • 200 grams Gula Melaka (palm sugar)
  • Asafoetida

Equipment

WokSpatulaSmall bowl

Tips

  • To make small batches at home, estimate the quantities based on the larger batch shown.
  • For vegetable dishes, use more garlic than ginger.
  • Leave the pumpkin skin on.
  • Cook the pumpkin until some pieces are whole and some are broken down for a better eating experience.