South Indian cuisine is extremely popular for the diverse flavours it offers. From light and comforting idli-sambar to rich and fiery Chettinad chicken, one cannot ignore the vast repertoire that the cuisine has. While many regions in south India is famous for mouth-watering non-vegetarian dishes, the vegetarian counterpart is equally drool-worthy! Be it the wholesome avial curry or the soothing vegetable stews, the options are endless. The regional cuisine from Kerala, best known for sumptuous non-vegetarian delicacies including fish curries has wholesome vegetarian dishes too that are simply irresistible!
Erissery, one of the traditional dishes from Kerala, is made with a combination of vegetables and ground spices and makes for a great lunch option. The primary ingredients of Erissery include grated coconut and pumpkin which lends an irresistible balance of flavours. One can also experiment with jackfruit, yam, papaya or raw banana instead of just pumpkin and can also add pulses to make a more nutritious dish. Erissery is a special dish from Kerala that is also included in the feast of one of the biggest festivals of South India- Onam. Besides, it is a staple at other pujas and weddings in the region. It goes well as an accompaniment to red rice.
(Also Read: 11 Best South Indian Curries You Can Try At Home)
Erissery is a yummy combination of pumpkin, coconut and flavourful spices.
The recipe of Erissery is pretty simple where sliced pumpkin cubes are boiled and then mashed and cooked with a freshly prepared paste of coconut, garlic, cumin seeds, green chillies, turmeric powder and pepper powder. It is simmered on a medium flame until cooked tender and then topped with a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, red chillies and grated coconut!
Find the full recipe of Erissery here.
You can serve it hot with Kerala red rice on special occasions or for a quick lunch. If you want you can add more vegetables of your choice too!
Try this south Indian gem at home and share your experience with us in the comments section below.