Mathanga Erissery | Yellow Pumpkin Erissery
A Classic Kerala Sadya Dish
Mathanga Erissery, also known as Yellow Pumpkin Erissery, is one of the most cherished vegetarian dishes in traditional Kerala cuisine. Prepared with ripe yellow pumpkin, coconut, and a tempering of aromatic spices, this dish holds a special place in festive meals, especially the grand Onam Sadya. Its mild sweetness balanced with earthy flavors makes it a wholesome comfort food loved by both young and old.
Significance in Kerala Cuisine
Erissery is considered a signature item in Kerala households, particularly during celebrations. Mathanga Erissery is often served as part of the Sadya, alongside sambar, avial, olan, pachadi, and payasam. What makes it unique is its perfect blend of sweetness from pumpkin and the rich nuttiness of roasted coconut. This harmony of flavors is what gives Erissery its distinct identity on the banana leaf spread.
Nutritional Goodness of Yellow Pumpkin
Beyond its taste, Mathanga Erissery is highly nutritious. Yellow pumpkin is rich in dietary fiber, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants that promote eye health, digestion, and immunity. Combined with coconut and legumes, it becomes a balanced dish packed with energy and nourishment. For those looking for a healthy yet satisfying vegetarian option, Erissery is a perfect choice.
Flavor Profile and Texture
The highlight of this dish lies in its texture and seasoning. The softness of pumpkin, combined with ground coconut paste, creates a creamy base. The final tempering of fried coconut and curry leaves adds crunch and depth, making it both fragrant and delicious. This balance of smooth and crispy layers is what elevates Erissery above a simple curry.
Serving Suggestions
Mathanga Erissery pairs beautifully with steamed Kerala matta rice. It can be enjoyed with papad, pickle, and other Sadya side dishes for a festive meal. At the same time, it also works as a simple everyday curry when served with plain rice and thoran.
Conclusion
Mathanga Erissery | Yellow Pumpkin Erissery is more than just a curry—it’s a cultural and culinary treasure of Kerala. Its comforting taste, health benefits, and festive presence make it a timeless dish that continues to win hearts across generations.
Mathanga Erissery | Yellow Pumpkin Erissery
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Red cow peas Van payar
- 3 cups Yellow pumpkin cut into cubes, Mathanga
- 1/4 cup Grated Coconut
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds Jeerakam
- 2 - Garlic cloves
- Salt As reqd
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- Chilly powder As reqd
- For seasoning:
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 1 tsp Mustard seeds
- 2 - Dry red chillies Kollamulaku
- Curry leaves A few
- 1/4 cup Grated Coconut
Instructions
- For preparing Yellow Pumpkin Erissery, soak black-eyed beans in water for 2 hrs or in hot water for around an hour.
- Pressure cook them upto 2 whistles.
- After opening the lid, add pumpkin cubes, along with salt, turmeric powder and chilly powder.
- Cook again upto a whistle or less.
- Add it to the above cooked pumpkin.
- Simmer for a few mins.
- :- Mix with care so that the pumpkin pieces are not totally mashed.
- Heat oil in a pan or a kadai.
- Add grated coconut and fry, till it turns brown.
- Add the above seasoning into the curry and mix well.
- Simmer for a min.
- :- Serve with rice.
- :- Erissery can also be made with Yam(Chena) and Black kadala in exactly the same way.
Notes
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Mathanga Erissery | Yellow Pumpkin Erissery
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It was a really good recipe…thanks
I tried this recipie at home , and it was liked by everybody. Looking forward to such type of recipies in future also
I prepared it exactly the way you mentioned and it came out yummy. My husband liked it a lot.It was really delicious..thanks