Veg Stew Recipe Kerala Style For Authentic Flavor

Kerala-style vegetable stew is a beloved classic from the southern coast of India, renowned for its rich, creamy texture and aromatic flavors. This comforting dish combines fresh vegetables simmered gently in a fragrant coconut milk base, infused with whole spices and curry leaves.

The subtle sweetness of the coconut milk paired with the warmth of ginger and the mild heat from green chilies creates a harmonious balance that makes this stew a perfect accompaniment to appams, idiyappams, or even plain steamed rice.

Whether you’re looking to add a wholesome and vibrant dish to your dinner rotation or want to explore traditional Kerala cuisine, this veg stew recipe is a must-try. It’s not only easy to prepare but also highly versatile and packed with nutrients.

Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the backwaters of Kerala!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Kerala-style vegetable stew offers a perfect blend of flavors that’s both comforting and exotic. The use of fresh coconut milk gives it a creamy, luscious texture without heaviness.

It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry.

The stew’s versatility means you can customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables or what you have on hand. It’s also a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet in a delicious and satisfying way.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of South Indian breads and rice dishes, making it a fantastic choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Lastly, this recipe is a wonderful introduction to Kerala cuisine, encouraging you to explore more regional dishes like Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore or the Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals for more culinary inspiration.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, potatoes, peas, cauliflower – chopped)
• 1 cup thinly sliced onions
• 1 cup thick coconut milk
• 1 cup thin coconut milk (extract from grated coconut)
• 2 green chilies (slit lengthwise)
• 1-inch piece of ginger (julienned)
• 1 tsp black peppercorns (lightly crushed)
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Equipment

• Large saucepan or deep skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Grater (if extracting fresh coconut milk)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop all your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Keep them ready for cooking.
2. Cook the vegetables: In a large saucepan, add the chopped vegetables along with thin coconut milk and a little water if necessary. Add salt and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer until tender: Cover the pan and let the vegetables cook on medium heat until they are tender but not mushy, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Sauté aromatics: In a separate small pan, heat the coconut oil. Add sliced onions, green chilies, ginger, black peppercorns, and curry leaves. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and aromatic.
5. Combine and simmer: Add the sautéed mixture to the cooked vegetables. Stir gently to combine.
6. Add thick coconut milk: Pour in the thick coconut milk and stir carefully. Do not boil the stew after adding thick coconut milk to avoid curdling.
7. Final seasoning: Adjust salt if needed. Turn off the heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Serve warm: Serve the Kerala veg stew hot with soft appams, idiyappams, or steamed rice.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, use fresh coconut milk. However, canned coconut milk can be used in a pinch, just make sure to shake it well before using.

• You can add vegetables like yam, raw banana, or even pumpkin for different textures and flavors.
• For a richer taste, add a few whole green cardamom pods to the sauté while cooking the aromatics.
• If you prefer a slightly spicier stew, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili powder.
• Try tempering the stew with mustard seeds and dried red chilies in hot coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• This stew can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Kerala veg stew is traditionally served with appams (soft rice pancakes) or idiyappams (string hoppers), which perfectly soak up the creamy stew. It also pairs wonderfully with plain steamed rice or even chapati for a fusion twist.

For a wholesome meal, serve alongside a tangy cucumber raita or a simple coconut chutney. You can also enjoy it with other Kerala breakfast staples like Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas which offer comforting and nutritious complements.

Conclusion

Kerala-style vegetable stew is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply flavorful. Its creamy coconut base combined with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices makes it a versatile recipe perfect for any meal of the day.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Indian cuisine, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Beyond just a recipe, this stew invites you to explore the rich culinary traditions of Kerala and experiment with fresh, wholesome ingredients. For more delicious vegetable-based dishes, consider exploring other recipes on our site like the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or the Vegetable Lasagna Stouffer’s Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Happy cooking and enjoy the taste of Kerala in your kitchen!

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