For a richer flavor, use coconut milk instead of water. Adjust the amount of chile peppers to your spice preference. The key to this curry is the final tempering of coconut – don't skip it! Serve with rice or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.
Embark on a flavorful journey to South India with this vibrant pumpkin curry. A celebration of autumnal flavors, this dish features tender pumpkin simmered in a fragrant blend of spices and finished with a tantalizing coconut tempering. Perfect for festivals or a cozy weeknight meal, this curry is both nutritious and utterly delicious.
In a large pot, combine the pumpkin and 2 cups of water, ensuring the pumpkin is mostly submerged. Season with turmeric and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pumpkin is tender but still holds its shape, approximately 15 minutes.
In a food processor, grind together 1/2 cup coconut, 3 dried red chile peppers, the green chile pepper, 2 tablespoons of water, and cumin seeds into a smooth paste. Stir this paste into the pumpkin mixture and bring back to a gentle boil. Cook until the liquid thickens and nicely coats the pumpkin, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the curry to a serving bowl.
Heat 2 teaspoons of coconut oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 dried red chile peppers, mustard seeds, and black lentils. Cook until the mustard seeds sputter and the lentils turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Pour this tempering mixture over the curry.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Add 1 tablespoon of grated coconut and fry until it turns a rich golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Pour the fried coconut over the curry. Garnish with fresh curry leaves before serving.
For a richer flavor, use coconut milk instead of water. Adjust the amount of chile peppers to your spice preference. The key to this curry is the final tempering of coconut – don't skip it! Serve with rice or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nia Larkin
Jun 30, 2025Fantastic recipe! Will definitely make again.
Damon Pfeffer
Jun 20, 2025Delicious and healthy! A new favorite in our household.
Freida Rau
Jun 16, 2025I added a pinch of sugar to balance the spice, and it was perfect.
Joshua Koepp
Jun 13, 2025The tempering is the key to this dish. Don't skip it!
Maxie Reilly
Jun 7, 2025I used butternut squash instead of pumpkin and it worked great.
Darren Dooley
Jun 4, 2025This recipe is amazing! The fried coconut really makes a difference.
Clementina Tromp
Jun 2, 2025So easy to make and packed with flavor. My family loved it!