Chakkakuru Mezhukkupuratti

Method

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   About this poriyal: Poriyal is the quintessential South Indian dry vegetable side dish — a dry stir-fry finished with mustard-seed tempering and fresh coconut. The star today is jackfruit seeds Kerala style. Famous in jackfruit seeds. Tirunelveli border region.

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   Choose fresh jackfruit seeds Kerala style: Select firm, bright, unblemished jackfruit seeds Kerala style. Freshness is key — the dish is simple so ingredient quality is visible.

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   Wash thoroughly: Rinse jackfruit seeds Kerala style in a bowl of cold water, rubbing the surface to remove soil. Drain and rinse 2-3 more times until water runs completely clear.

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   Cut uniformly: False Aim for even 1 to 2 cm pieces so everything cooks at the same rate.

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   Grate coconut: Grate 1/4 cup fresh coconut on the fine side of a grater. Set aside — add only at the very end. Adding coconut too early makes it dry and bitter.

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   Heat kadai: Place a wide heavy-bottomed kadai on medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons oil (or coconut oil). Ready when a mustard seed sizzles and jumps.

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   Temper mustard seeds: Add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds. Wait for popping to subside completely — about 30 seconds.

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   Add urad dal and aromatics: Add 1/2 teaspoon split urad dal, fry 30 seconds until golden. Add 8 to 10 curry leaves, 1 to 2 dried red chillies and a pinch of asafoetida. Fry 20 seconds.

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   Saute onion: Add 1 small onion thinly sliced. Cook 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Do not brown.

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    Add jackfruit seeds Kerala style: Stir to coat with tempered oil. Add 2 tablespoons water to create steam.

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    Season and cook covered: Add 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, salt to taste, 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder. Cover and cook on low-medium heat 8 to 12 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes.

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    Add coconut: Once vegetable is fully cooked and pan is nearly dry, fold in the grated coconut. Stir gently and cook on low heat 2 minutes. Do not overcook.

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    Taste and serve: Adjust salt. Serve hot alongside steamed rice, sambar and rasam. Also pairs well with chapati.