Classic Tamil Nadu dry stir-fry with green peas, tempered mustard seeds and fresh coconut.

Ingredients

Method

  1. Prepare peas: If using fresh green peas shell them. If using frozen peas, thaw completely by rinsing under warm water.
  2. Make tempering: Heat 2 tbsp oil. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds — when they pop add 1 tsp urad dal and fry golden.
  3. Add aromatics: Add 1 broken dried red chilli, 1 sprig curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida. Fry 20 seconds.
  4. Add shallots and green chilli: Add 5 sliced shallots and 2 chopped green chillies. Cook 3 minutes.
  5. Add peas: Add the peas. Season with half tsp turmeric and salt.
  6. Cook: Cook uncovered on medium heat 4-5 minutes for frozen peas, 8-10 minutes for fresh peas until fully cooked.
  7. Dry out: If any moisture remains cook on high heat 2 minutes.
  8. Add coconut: Add 3 tbsp freshly grated coconut. Toss on high heat 1-2 minutes.
  9. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add salt. Peas should be tender and sweet.
  10. Serve: Pattani poriyal is a vibrant green protein-rich side dish. Serve with steamed rice, sambar and rasam.