Sri Lankan Beetroot Curry: An Enchanting Blend of Earthy and Sweet Flavors

How to Cook Beetroot Curry Sri Lankan Style

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka with this exquisite Beetroot Curry recipe. This delectable dish, known as "Beetroot Mallung," combines the earthy sweetness of beetroot with a symphony of aromatic spices, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized beetroot, peeled and diced
• 2 cups of freshly grated coconut
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
• 1/2 cup of thinly sliced onions
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
• A few curry leaves
• 1 cup of water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beetroot: Begin by thoroughly washing and peeling the beetroot. Cut them into small cubes or grate them coarsely. Set aside.

2. Grind the Spices: In a spice grinder or blender, combine the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, green chilies, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Grind to a fine powder and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the oil in a cooking pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and mustard seeds and continue to cook for a minute, allowing the flavors to blend.

4. Add the Beetroot: Pour in the diced beetroot and stir well, coating them with the sautéed aromatics. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Incorporate the Spices: Now, add the ground spice mixture, salt, and freshly grated coconut to the pot. Stir thoroughly, ensuring that the beetroot is well coated with the spices. Allow this mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

6. Simmer and Season: Pour in one cup of water, adjust the heat to low, and allow the curry to simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the beetroot is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

7. Add Curry Leaves and Finish: Finally, add a handful of fresh curry leaves and stir gently. Let the curry simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld harmoniously.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the delectable Beetroot Curry to a serving bowl and garnish with additional curry leaves for an aromatic touch. Serve steaming hot with steamed rice, roti, or any other accompaniment of your choice.

Conclusion:

Embark on a culinary journey to Sri Lanka and savor the vibrant flavors of Beetroot Curry, a dish that captures the essence of this exotic cuisine. With its perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and subtle heat, this curry is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Experiment with different accompaniments to find the perfect pairing that suits your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use canned beetroot instead of fresh beetroot?

Yes, you can use canned beetroot as a substitute for fresh beetroot. However, using fresh beetroot is highly recommended for optimal taste and texture.

2. How can I adjust the spiciness of the curry?

To adjust the spiciness level, reduce the amount of red chili powder used in the recipe. You can also omit the green chilies altogether if you prefer a milder curry.

3. What are some suitable accompaniments for Beetroot Curry?

Steamed rice, roti, or any flatbread of your choice are traditional accompaniments for Beetroot Curry. You can also serve it with quinoa or even boiled potatoes for a hearty meal.

4. Can I make Beetroot Curry ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Beetroot Curry ahead of time. Allow the curry to cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

5. What are some variations of Beetroot Curry?

There are many variations of Beetroot Curry. You can add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to create a more colorful and nutritious dish. You can also experiment with different spices to achieve a unique flavor profile.

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