Indian Fried Pumpkin
By: Leah Rodrigues
Published: October 27, 2011

Indian fried pumpkin is a fragrant and delicious dish to warm you up on a cool fall evening.  The "fried" part of this dish refers to the spices rather than the pumpkin itself.  In Indian cooking ,the spices are traditionally fried in a mild oil before ingredients are added.  This technique releases the spice's oils which helps to intensify their flavor.  It is important to get the best spices possible for this dish as they are one of the main flavor boosters.  My trick is to go with whole spices as opposed to ground when possible.  Serve this dish with a side of basmati rice and you have got a fabulous  dinner.
Indian Fried Pumpkin
Ingredients:



1 small pumpkin, skinned & seeded, cut into large cubes
2 sprigs curry leaves, discard stalks
2 tablespoons mustard seeds
5 dried chllies or more if you like it hot, soaked to soften and discard some of the seeds
2 large onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons grated ginger
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon coriander powder
for frying, I used grapeseed oil
 
Directions:
 





Heat oil in pan and stir in curry leaves, mustard seeds and dried chillies until the mustard seeds start to pop.


   
Remove chillies.


   
Add chopped onions and grated ginger and fry until onions are soft.


   
Toss in diced pumpkin, turmeric powder and coriander powder and stir to combine.


   
Add about a half cup of water, stir and simmer covered, until liquid evaporates and pumpkin turns soft.


   
If needed, add more water, cover and simmer until the desired texture. Do not put in too much water or pumpkin will become mushy.


   
Add salt to taste. (Sprinkle with some chopped fresh coriander if desired)

Comments:
Magnolia 75: Th...
October 27, 2011

I really want to try this!! I've been looking for authentic pumpkin recipes thanks so much :D