Kerala Style Kadala Curry Recipe: How to make Kadala Curry?

Kerala Style Kadala Curry is a rich and flavorful curry that showcases the robust flavors of South Indian cuisine. Made primarily from black chickpeas (kadala) cooked in a coconut-based gravy infused with traditional spices, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. What sets it apart is its unique blend of spices, which lend warmth and depth to the dish, combined with the creaminess of coconut that balances the earthy flavor of the chickpeas. Perfectly paired with rice or soft, fluffy appams, Kadala Curry is a staple in many Kerala households, celebrated for its wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

To prepare an authentic Kerala Style Kadala Curry, gather the following ingredients:

For the Kadala (Black Chickpeas)

• 1 cup black chickpeas (kadala), soaked overnight
• 3 cups water for boiling

For the Coconut Curry

• 1 cup fresh grated coconut (or ½ cup desiccated coconut)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or any cooking oil)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust according to spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• 2 sprigs curry leaves
• Water, as needed for consistency

Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

1. Soak the Chickpeas: In a bowl, soak 1 cup of black chickpeas overnight in enough water to cover them completely. This will soften the chickpeas and reduce cooking time.
2. Cook the Chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas and transfer them to a pressure cooker with 3 cups of fresh water. Add a pinch of salt. Cook for about 3-4 whistles (approximately 10-12 minutes). If not using a pressure cooker, boil in a regular pot until tender, which may take around 30-40 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Coconut Paste

3. Blend the Coconut: In a small blender or food processor, add the freshly grated coconut and blend with a little water to form a smooth paste. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Curry

4. Heat Oil: In a large pan or kadai, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium flame. Once hot, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter.
5. Sauté Onions and Spices: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and golden brown. Then add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, sautéing for an additional 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
6. Add Tomatoes and Dry Spices: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften (about 4-5 minutes). Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Mix in Chickpeas: Once the tomatoes are well-cooked, add the cooked chickpeas to the pan. Stir well to combine with the spice mixture.
8. Add Coconut Paste: Pour in the blended coconut paste, adding water as needed to achieve your desired curry consistency. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
9. Finish with Garam Masala: Just before removing the curry from heat, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garam masala and add the curry leaves. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

10. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, appams, or chapati.

Serving Suggestions

Kerala Style Kadala Curry pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed Rice: The mild flavor of rice balances the spices in the curry.
• Appams: Soft, fermented rice pancakes that complement the creamy curry perfectly.
• Chapati or Paratha: Fluffy Indian flatbreads are excellent for scooping up the curry.
• Pickles: A spicy mango or lime pickle can add an exciting contrast to the dish.
• Side Salad: A refreshing cucumber or onion salad to balance flavors.

Suggested Beverages

• Mango Lassi: A cooling yogurt drink, perfect for offsetting the heat from the spices.
• Masala Chai: A spiced tea that complements the aromatic flavors of the curry.

Nutritional Information

Kerala Style Kadala Curry is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Black chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
• Rich in Fiber: Chickpeas contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
• Vitamins and Minerals: This curry is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins from chickpeas and the spices used.
• Healthy Fats: Coconut provides healthy fats, which can help in improving heart health when consumed in moderation.
• Antioxidants: The spices used, especially turmeric, contain antioxidants that contribute to overall health.

Conclusion

Kerala Style Kadala Curry is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. With its rich flavors and numerous health benefits, it caters to a variety of palates and dietary preferences. Don’t be intimidated by the spices; they combine to create a symphony of flavors that are both comforting and exciting. Now that you have this detailed recipe, embrace your inner chef and enjoy crafting this beautiful South Indian dish in your kitchen!

Cooking Tip

To save time, prepare the chickpeas in bulk and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. This way, you can whip up this flavorful curry in under 30 minutes whenever the craving strikes!