A Sweet Pumpkin or pumpkin, is a beloved ingredient over the world, known for its naturally sweet flavor and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this delightful dish is a must-try. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a traditional recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 500g sweet pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1/2 onion(sliced)
- 1 teaspoon black cumin
- 1 teaspoon of garlic paste or grated
- 1 teaspoon of cumins and corriender powder mixed
- 2 dried red chilies
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar(You can skip)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish(Not necessary, depend on your preference)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pumpkin:
Begin by peeling the pumpkin and removing the seeds. Cut it into small, bite-sized cubes. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will cook and absorb the flavors. - Heat the Oil:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil until it starts to smoke slightly. This step is crucial to mellow out the pungency of the oil, giving the dish its authentic taste. - Add black cumin to the hot oil, allowing it to pop. Be quick to proceed to the next step to prevent burning. If you don’t want black cumin, skip to step 4.
- Add onions to fry until brown.
- Add garlic.
- Temper the Spices:
Add the spices mixed, dried red chilies, and bay leaf to the hot oil. Sauté for a few seconds until the spices release their aromatic flavors. Be careful not to burn them. - Cook the Pumpkin:
Add the cubed pumpkin to the pan and stir well, ensuring the pieces are coated with the fragrant oil and spices. Sprinkle turmeric powder over the pumpkin and mix thoroughly. - Season and Sweeten:
Add salt to taste and sprinkle the sugar evenly over the pumpkin. The sugar will balance the flavors and enhance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin. Stir well to combine. - Simmer and Cook:
Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the pumpkin cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pumpkin should become soft and tender, absorbing the spices beautifully. - Garnish and Serve:
Once the pumpkin is cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove the pan from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. - Enjoy Your Creation:
Serve the pumpkin hot with steamed rice or as a side dish with roti. Its sweet and savory flavor profile makes it a delightful addition to any meal.
Pumpkin is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of sweetness and color. Its sweet and aromatic profile is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients and try this recipe today to experience the delightful charm of pumpkin in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!