Tindora Stir Fry (Kovakka Mezhukkuparati)

This recipe is simple, using minimal ingredients and cooking time, with no need for exact measurements. However, my recipe is a guide for those who want measurements. Tindora, rich in fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory benefits, is stir-fried with warm spices for a satisfying dish. Pair it with rice, flatbread, and yogurt raita for a complete meal. Search for Tindora or Kovakka at your local Asian or Indian grocery store and give this recipe a try!

Ingredients

Olive oil enough to coat the bottom of pan (2-3 Tbsp depending on your pot or pan)

1-2 lb Tindora, sliced lengthwise (use 1 lb if each Tindora is larger than average)

1 medium onion, chopped

2-3 cloves of garlic, chopped

1 sprig of curry leaves

1 green chili, sliced

1/2 tsp mustard seeds

1/4 tsp turmeric

1 tsp of coriander powder

A pinch of ajwain seeds (optional)

salt to taste

Recipe

1. Add olive oil to the pot at medium heat. Once the oil is heated through, add the mustard seeds and wait for it to pop. Use the lid to close the pot to prevent splatter.

   
   

2. After the mustard seeds finish popping, incorporate the onions, garlic, curry leaves, and green chili. Stir them together with the mustard seeds until the onions turn translucent and the green chili becomes a vibrant green color.

   
   

3. Add the turmeric, coriander and ajwain seeds. Saute with the onion mixture until the spices are adequately mixed throughout. The raw smell of the spices should be mild but fragrant.

   
   

4. Incorporate the washed and cleaned Tindora or Kovakka, blending it with the spice and onion mixture. Ensure the Tindora is thoroughly coated with the spice flavors and the aromatics we sautéed.

   
   

5. Slowly incorporate small quantities of water while cooking until it evaporates and the Tindora is completely cooked. The cook time will take approximately 20-25 minutes with the lid on the pot, depending on your heat source. If needed, cook for a longer period until the Tindora becomes tender and stir-fried. Enjoy and share this recipe!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHXr5LCovX4