Mathanga Thoran | Pumpkin Stir Fry

Mathanga Thoran | Pumpkin Stir Fry – A Kerala Delight

Introduction

Mathanga Thoran, or Pumpkin Stir Fry, is a beloved dish in Kerala cuisine. It is celebrated for its simplicity and unique flavor profile. This traditional dish brings together the subtle sweetness of pumpkin with a blend of coconut and spices. The dish makes an essential component in the everyday meals of Kerala households.

Health Benefits of Mathanga Thoran

Pumpkin, the star of the dish, is rich in nutrients, including beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, and fiber. These nutrients contribute to improved vision, a stronger immune system, and better digestion. The dish is not just delicious but also a powerhouse of health, especially when cooked with minimal oil and fresh coconut. The antioxidants found in pumpkin help protect the body from free radicals, making this thoran a fantastic choice for those aiming to eat healthily.

Key Ingredients that Define the Dish

What makes the dish so special is its use of coconut, green chilies, curry leaves, and turmeric, all of which bring out the natural sweetness of the pumpkin. These ingredients are staples in Kerala kitchens and lend the dish its authentic, earthy taste. The balance of heat from the chilies and the sweetness of the pumpkin creates a harmonious flavor that pairs well with steamed rice.

A Must-Have in Sadya Feasts

The dish often features in the grand feast of Onam Sadya, a traditional multi-course vegetarian meal served on banana leaves. Its bright orange hue adds color to the spread and its mild flavors complement the spicier dishes, providing a welcome contrast.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and sambar, making it a popular choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner. For a lighter meal, it can also be served alongside curd rice or rasam.

Conclusion

Mathanga Thoran is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the beauty of Kerala’s culinary traditions. Its health benefits and versatility make it a must-try for anyone exploring South Indian cuisine.

Mathanga Thoran | Pumpkin Stir Fry

Mathanga Thoran, or Pumpkin Stir Fry, is a beloved dish in Kerala cuisine, celebrated for its simplicity and unique flavor profile.

No ratings yet

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Kerala

Ingredients

  

• 500 g Mathanga (Pumpkin) (preferably ripe)
• 2 Tsp Red Chilly powder
• 5-6 Pieces Green Chilly(sliced) 
• 1 Tsp Turmeric Powder 
• 1/4 Cup Grated coconut 
• 1/4 Cup Chopped Shallots / Onion 
• 3 Tsp Coconut / RefinedOil   
• 1/2 Tsp Cumin seeds
• Curry leaves Few
• Salt As reqd

Instructions

 

• Select a Pumpkin/Mathanga that is preferably ripe.
  
• Peel the thick skin and cut into small thin pieces as shown in the picture.
  
• Heat oil in a cheenachatti/frying pan and then add the chopped shallots/onion along with cumin seeds and stir it well.
  
• When colour of the ingredients mentioned above turns into golden, add curry leaves, green chilli pieces, chilli powder, turmeric powder and required quantity of salt. Stir it well.
  
• After about 2 – 3 minutes, add the Matthanga pieces also and stir it further.
  
• Cover the pan with a plate/lid and cook the pumpkin pieces properly in medium flame without adding water.
  
• After about 10 minutes, remove the plate/lid and stir the mix one more time and if the Mathanga pieces are cooked properly, add grated coconut and stir it further. Mathanga Thoran | Pumpkin Stir Fry is ready.
  
• If required, garnish the Mathanga Thoran with grated coconut and serve it with cooked rice.
  

Notes

You can visit this link Yellow Pumpkin Erissery. You can also visit this link Mathanga Payar Erissery.

Keyword Mathanga Thoran, Pumpkin Stir Fry

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!