How to Make Jackfruit Curry South Indian Style

Jackfruit, known as “Kathal” in Hindi, is a versatile ingredient used in many Indian dishes. In South India, jackfruit curry is a popular dish known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Whether you are looking for a traditional kathal ki sabji recipe or a unique curried jackfruit recipe, this South Indian-style preparation is sure to delight your taste buds. You can also use this curry as a filling for jackfruit tacos, adding an exciting twist to your meals.

Ingredients Required:

For Cooking Jackfruit:

• 2 cups raw jackfruit, peeled and chopped
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups water

For the Curry:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, slit
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe:

Step 1: Boiling the Jackfruit

1. In a pot, add chopped raw jackfruit, turmeric powder, salt, and water.
2. Boil for 10-15 minutes until the jackfruit becomes tender.
3. Drain the water and set aside the cooked jackfruit.

Step 2: Preparing the Curry Base

1. Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
3. Add curry leaves, chopped onions, and green chilies. Sauté until onions turn golden brown.
4. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cooking the Jackfruit Curry

1. Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
2. Mix in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.
3. Stir well and let the spices blend with the tomato mixture.
4. Add the cooked jackfruit pieces and toss them well in the masala.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and mix everything together.
6. Let the curry simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
7. Adjust salt to taste and turn off the heat.

Step 4: Garnishing and Serving

1. Garnish the jackfruit curry with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or dosa.

Variations and Tips:

• For a spicier version, increase the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder.
• For a richer taste, add 1 tablespoon of tamarind pulp for a tangy flavor.
• To make jackfruit tacos, use this curried jackfruit as a filling inside soft tortillas, topped with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• For a dry version, reduce the amount of coconut milk and cook until the jackfruit absorbs all the flavors.

Health Benefits of Jackfruit:

Jackfruit is packed with nutrients, making this dish not only delicious but also healthy. It is high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Being a great plant-based meat substitute, jackfruit is popular in vegetarian and vegan recipes, including tacos and burgers.

Conclusion:

This South Indian-style jackfruit curry is a delightful dish full of flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a classic kathal ki sabji, a curried jackfruit recipe, or even as a filling for jackfruit tacos, it is sure to impress. Try this recipe at home and enjoy a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine!