Welcome to my blog! As a South Indian, one of my favorite recipes from my mom’s kitchen is Kerala cucumber curry. It’s a quick and easy dish that brings the flavors of Kerala to your table. This curry features tender cucumber pieces cooked in a creamy coconut gravy, without the need for yogurt. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while the coconut brings a sweet creaminess that perfectly complements the mild spices. Seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies, this curry bursts with delicious flavors. It’s perfect as a side dish with steamed rice or as part of a traditional Kerala meal. Whether you’re in India or Europe, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Kerala Cucumber
2. Ingredients
3. Recipe
4. Method of preparation with pictures
5. Watch video recipe
6. Health benefits
7. Storage and reheating
8. Frequently asked questions(FAQS)

KERALA CUCUMBER

Kerala cucumber, also known as “Malabar cucumber” or “Magge” in Malayalam, is a type of cucumber native to the Indian state of Kerala. It’s a smaller variety compared to regular cucumbers, with a thicker skin and crisp, juicy flesh. Kerala cucumber is commonly used in Kerala cuisine, particularly in dishes like curries, salads, pickles, and chutneys. It’s prized for its refreshing taste and versatility in cooking, making it a popular ingredient in many traditional Kerala recipes.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 Kerala Cucumber
• 2-3 green chilies(as per taste)
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 1/2 grated or diced coconut
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil/any oil of your choice
• 1-2 dry chilies
• Curry leaves

PREPARATION TIME:10 Minutes COOKING TIME:30 Minutes

Recipe

1. In a pan, combine the chopped Kerala cucumber, sliced green chillies, and 1/4 cup of water. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes or until the cucumber becomes soft.
2. While the cucumber is cooking, prepare the coconut paste. In a blender or food processor, blend the diced or grated coconut with 1/4 cup water until it forms a fine paste. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
3. In a separate pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. Allow them to splutter. Add finely chopped ginger and saute well.
4. Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become translucent.
5. Once the cucumber is cooked, add it to the pan along with the prepared coconut paste. Mix everything well.
6. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together, being careful not to boil as it may affect the coconut’s nutritional value.
7. Serve the Kerala cucumber curry hot as a side dish with steamed rice or as part of a traditional Kerala meal.

METHOD OF PREPARATION WITH PICTURES

1. In a pan, combine the chopped Kerala cucumber, sliced green chillies, and 1/4 cup of water. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes or until the cucumber becomes soft.

2.While the cucumber is cooking, prepare the coconut paste. In a blender or food processor, blend the diced or grated coconut with 1/4 cup water until it forms a fine paste. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.

3.In a separate pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. Allow them to splutter. Add finely chopped ginger and mix well.

4. Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become translucent.

5.Once the cucumber is cooked, add it to the pan along with the prepared coconut paste. Mix everything well.

6. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together, being careful not to boil as it may affect the coconut’s nutritional value.

7.Serve the Kerala cucumber curry hot as a side dish with steamed rice or as part of a traditional Kerala meal.

Enjoy this delightful Kerala cucumber curry that’s bursting with delicious flavors and the authentic taste of Kerala cuisine!

WATCH VIDEO RECIPE

HEALTH BENEFITS

• Nutrient-Rich: Kerala cucumber provides a host of essential nutrients, contributing to overall health and well-being.
• Low in Calories: This curry is a nutritious, low-calorie option, suitable for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
• Hydration: With high water content, Kerala cucumber helps in staying hydrated, important for overall well-being.
• Antioxidants and Vitamins: The curry is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, supporting the body’s immune system and vitality.
• Digestive Support: Its fiber content promotes digestive health, aiding in proper digestion and maintaining a healthy gut.
• Cooling Properties: Traditionally believed to have cooling properties, Kerala cucumber helps in reducing body heat, particularly beneficial in tropical regions.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Kerala cucumber curry while benefiting from its nutritional value and healthful attributes!

STORAGE AND REHEATING

Storage:

• Cool curry to room temperature.
• Transfer to airtight container.
• Refrigerate for 2-3 days.

Reheating:

• Transfer to microwave-safe dish.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring.
• Or reheat in saucepan over medium heat.

Freezing:

• Cool curry to room temperature.
• Transfer to freezer-safe container.
• Label with date.
• Freeze for 2-3 months.
• Thaw in refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat following reheating instructions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS(FAQS)

1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Kerala cucumbers?
   

   Absolutely! While the flavor and texture may vary slightly, regular cucumbers can be used as a substitute for Kerala cucumbers in this recipe.

2. Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the curry?
   

   Yes, the spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference by increasing or decreasing the quantity of green chilies used.

3. Is it necessary to use coconut oil, or can I use a different type of oil?
   

   While coconut oil complements the flavors of this dish, you can use any neutral-flavored oil as a substitute if desired.

4. What can I serve this Kerala cucumber curry with?
   

   This curry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, traditional Kerala parboiled rice, or even with Indian breads like chapati or naan.

5. Can I prepare the coconut paste in advance?
   

   Yes, you can prepare the coconut paste ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two before using it in the recipe.

6. How can I make this curry less creamy?
   

   To make a lighter version of this curry, you can reduce the amount of coconut used in the recipe, resulting in a less creamy consistency.

7. Are there any alternative vegetables that can be used in this recipe?
   

   While Kerala cucumber is traditional for this curry, other vegetables like zucchini or ash gourd can be used as substitutes, though the flavor profile will be different.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time for a party or gathering?
   

   Absolutely! This curry can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving, making it a convenient dish for entertaining.

CONCLUSION

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Kerala with this delightful Kerala cucumber curry. Whether enjoyed as a side dish with steamed rice or as part of a traditional Kerala meal, this dish is a true representation of Kerala’s culinary charm. With its refreshing taste, creamy coconut gravy, and burst of flavors, this curry is sure to become a favorite in your home, bringing a taste of Kerala to every bite.

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