Aratikaaya Masala Pulusu

Aratikaaya Masala Pulusu is a South Indian dish made with raw plantains (Aratikaaya) and a flavorful tamarind-based gravy. It's a delicious and tangy curry that pairs well with rice.

Ingredients:

• 2 raw plantains (Aratikaaya), peeled and cut into thick slices
• 1 cup tamarind extract (thick)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• Curry leaves
• Coriander leaves for garnish
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil

For Masala Paste:

• 1/2 cup grated coconut
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1-inch piece of ginger

Instructions:

1. Prepare Masala Paste:

   • Grind grated coconut, cumin seeds, garlic, and ginger into a smooth paste using a little water. Set aside.

2. Cook Plantains:

   • Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Allow them to splutter.
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

   • Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate.

4. Add Plantains:

   • Add the sliced raw plantains (Aratikaaya) and mix well. Cook for a few minutes until the plantains are slightly fried.

5. Add Tamarind Extract:

   • Pour in the thick tamarind extract and bring the mixture to a boil. Add slit green chilies and salt to taste.

6. Simmer:

   • Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the plantains are cooked and the gravy thickens. Stir occasionally.

7. Add Masala Paste:

   • Once the plantains are cooked, add the ground masala paste. Mix well and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

8. Adjust Consistency and Seasoning:

   • Adjust the consistency of the pulusu by adding water if needed. Check and adjust the salt and spice levels according to your taste.

9. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Remove from heat.

10. Serve:

    • Aratikaaya Masala Pulusu is ready to be served. Serve it hot with steamed rice or Indian bread.

Tips:

• You can adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.
• To make the dish richer, you can add a tablespoon of coconut oil or coconut milk.
• For a tangier flavor, you can add a little bit of jaggery or brown sugar.
• You can garnish the dish with chopped coriander leaves.
• This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled if you're cooking for a larger crowd.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

This flavorful Aratikaaya Masala Pulusu is a comforting and satisfying dish with the goodness of raw plantains and the tanginess of tamarind.