Spiced Squash Curry Leaf Pickle: A Culinary Delight

Spiced squash curry leaf pickle is a delectable South Indian delicacy that tantalizes the taste buds with its unique blend of flavors. This tangy and flavorful pickle combines the sweetness of squash, the pungency of curry leaves, and a symphony of aromatic spices to create a culinary delight.

Ingredients

- 1 large squash (about 2 pounds) - 2 cups mustard oil - 1 cup fenugreek seeds - 1 cup curry leaves - 1/4 cup red chili powder - 1/4 cup turmeric powder - 1 tablespoon salt - 1 teaspoon asafoetida powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the squash: Peel and deseed the squash. Cut it into small cubes. 2. Roast the fenugreek seeds: Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the fenugreek seeds and roast for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant. 3. Grind the spices: In a spice grinder, grind the roasted fenugreek seeds, curry leaves, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and asafoetida powder into a fine powder. 4. Heat the oil: Heat the mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. 5. Add the spices: Once the oil is hot, add the ground spice mixture and stir for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. 6. Add the squash: Add the squash cubes to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. 7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer the pickle for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. 8. Cool and store: Allow the pickle to cool down completely before transferring it to a clean, airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.

Benefits of Spiced Squash Curry Leaf Pickle

- Rich in nutrients: Squash is a good source of vitamins A, C, and potassium. Curry leaves are rich in antioxidants and have antibacterial properties. - Aids digestion: The spices used in this pickle, such as fenugreek and turmeric, have digestive properties. - Enhances appetite: The tangy and flavorful nature of the pickle helps stimulate the appetite. - Versatile: It can be enjoyed as a condiment with rice, roti, or porridge. It can also be used as a side dish or as a marinade for grilled meats.

Conclusion

Spiced squash curry leaf pickle is a delectable and versatile culinary delight that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Its unique blend of sweetness, pungency, and spice makes it a favorite among South Indian households. Whether you enjoy it as a condiment or as an accompaniment to your main dish, this pickle is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.