📝 About This Recipe
Kaikari Pirattal is a vibrant South Indian stir-fry featuring a medley of vegetables and a fragrant spice blend, finished with freshly grated coconut. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in Tamil Nadu homes, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
🥗 Ingredients
For the Vegetables
- 3 cups Mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, potato, peas) (diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Fresh grated coconut
For the Tempering
- 2-3 tablespoons Oil
- 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon Urad dal
- 1 sprig Curry leaves
- 2-3 Dry red chilies (broken into two)
- pinch Asafoetida (hing)
For the Spice Powder
- 1 tablespoon Coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Garam masala (optional)
Other
- Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 cup Water (or as needed)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Wash and dice the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
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2
Heat oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
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3
Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
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4
Add urad dal and fry until it turns golden brown.
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5
Add curry leaves, dry red chilies, and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
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6
Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
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7
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and pulpy.
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8
Add the diced mixed vegetables to the pan.
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9
Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala (if using). Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
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10
Add salt to taste and mix again.
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11
Pour in about 1/4 cup of water, cover the pan, and cook on low heat until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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12
Once the vegetables are cooked and most of the water has evaporated, add the fresh grated coconut.
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13
Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the coconut flavor to infuse.
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14
Adjust salt if needed. Serve hot.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Don't overcook the vegetables; they should be tender-crisp. Adjust the spices according to your preference. Freshly grated coconut makes a big difference in taste. You can add other vegetables like cauliflower, brinjal, or bell peppers.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Steamed Rice Roti or Chapati Sambar Rasam Curd Rice