Theeyal

The harvest festival of Onam is celebrated with fun and fervor. Feasting and playing games form the important traditions of the festival, which falls on the Malayalam month - Chingam (Aug-Sep). Celebrated across the length and breadth of Kerala, Onam finds a special place in the Hindu festivals of India. One of the highlighting features of the festival is Onasadya, the traditional Onam feast. While the main dish and the puddings remain almost the same, many variations are brought about to the side dishes served in the feast. Many people are fond of relishing on theeyal, during the festival. Prepared using baby onions, the taste and aroma of theeyal curry can allure everyone. The spicy dish is very easy to make. Given below is the recipe of theeyal curry, describing how to make the dish.

Theeyal Curry Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup Baby Onions
• 5 Curry Leaves
• 1/2 tsp Mustard Seeds
• 2 tbsp Tamarind Paste
• 1/2 tsp Sugar
• 1 pinch Asafetida
• 1/2 cup Grated Coconut
• 7 Red Chilies
• 1 tbsp Coriander Seeds
• 1/4 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 7 Black Peppercorns
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 3 tbsp Oil
• Salt

Method

• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a small pan and sauté coconut until it is light brown.
• Add 5 red chilies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, peppercorns and fry until it emits an aroma.
• Add the turmeric powder. Stir-fry for 2-3 seconds.
• Keep aside to cool. Grind into a coarse powder.
• Heat 2 tablespoon oil and add the mustard seeds, curry leaves and remaining red chilies.
• When the seeds start spluttering, add asafetida and onions.
• Sauté the mixture for 5 minutes on a medium flame.
• Add the ground masala powder and cook for a few seconds.
• Add water, tamarind extract, salt and sugar and bring to a boil.
• Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Serve hot with steamed rice.
• Serves four.