[PROS]
- Rich in probiotics from buttermilk, aiding gut health.
- Contains vegetables, providing essential vitamins and fiber.
- Lower in fat compared to cream-based curries.
- Hydrating and cooling, especially suitable for warm climates.
[CONS]
- High sodium if not mindful of salt content.
- Dairy-based, not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- Can be high in saturated fat if excessive coconut is used.
[DIETITIAN REVIEW]
Mor Kuzhambu is a wonderfully balanced and nutritious dish, offering a good blend of probiotics, fiber, and mild spices. Its light, refreshing nature makes it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal, especially when paired with brown rice. It's a great way to incorporate vegetables and dairy into your diet. Score: 8/10
| Ingredient | Qty |
|---|---|
| Buttermilk (sour) | 1 cup |
| Ash Gourd or Cucumber (peeled, deseeded, chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 2 tablespoons |
| Green Chili | 1 (or to taste) |
| Ginger (grated) | 1/2 inch piece |
| Cumin Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Rice Flour (or raw rice soaked for 15 mins) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Coconut Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Red Chili | 1-2 (broken) |
| Curry Leaves | few sprigs |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | pinch |
1. In a small blender, combine grated coconut, green chili, ginger, cumin seeds, and rice flour (or soaked rice) with a splash of water. Grind to a very smooth paste.
2. In a medium pot, cook the chopped ash gourd or cucumber with a little water and turmeric powder until tender. Do not overcook.
3. Whisk the sour buttermilk until smooth and free of lumps. Stir in the ground coconut paste and salt.
4. Pour the buttermilk-coconut mixture into the pot with the cooked vegetable. Heat gently over low flame, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Do not bring to a rolling boil; just heat until it's warmed through and slightly thickened.
5. For tempering, heat coconut oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add broken dried red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour the tempering over the Mor Kuzhambu. Mix gently. Serve hot with steamed rice.