If you’re looking to dive into the vibrant flavors of Gujarati cuisine, the tindora recipe is a must-try! Also known as ivy gourd, tindora is a small, crunchy vegetable that absorbs spices beautifully, making it a perfect addition to your Indian meal repertoire.
This recipe highlights the traditional Gujarati style of cooking tindora, which balances tangy, sweet, and spicy notes for a delicious and wholesome dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner eager to try something new, this recipe offers straightforward steps and authentic tastes that bring the essence of Gujarat right to your kitchen.
Gujarati cuisine is renowned for its subtle layering of flavors, and this tindora recipe perfectly exemplifies that tradition. The dish is not only flavorful but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Plus, tindora is packed with nutrients and fiber, so you’re treating your body well while enjoying every bite. Let’s explore why this recipe will soon become a favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Gujarati tindora recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Every bite bursts with a lovely combination of mustard seeds, cumin, and a touch of jaggery, which adds a subtle sweetness that Gujaratis are famous for.
The method of cooking keeps the tindora crisp yet tender, preserving its natural freshness and texture.
It’s also an incredibly versatile dish. Serve it as a side with roti or rice, or incorporate it into a larger meal spread.
The recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible for many dietary preferences. Additionally, tindora is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins C and A, offering a healthy boost alongside its delicious taste.
Ingredients
- 250 grams tindora (ivy gourd), washed and sliced lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons oil (mustard oil preferred for authenticity)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon jaggery (grated or powdered)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Equipment
- Non-stick or heavy-bottomed frying pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring spoons
- Bowl for mixing
- Serving dish
Instructions
- Prepare the tindora: Wash the tindora thoroughly and pat dry. Slice each tindora lengthwise into thin strips, about 2-3 mm thick. This allows the spices to penetrate well and ensures even cooking.
- Heat the oil: In your pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and wait until they start to pop. This releases a nutty flavor that’s essential to the dish.
- Add cumin seeds and asafoetida: Quickly add the cumin seeds and a pinch of asafoetida. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté the tindora: Add the sliced tindora to the pan. Stir well so the oil coats all pieces. Cook uncovered on medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt over the tindora. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning. Cook for another 5 minutes, letting the spices infuse.
- Add jaggery: Sprinkle the jaggery on top and stir gently. The jaggery melts and adds a delightful sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
- Final touch: Squeeze the lemon juice over the cooked tindora and give it a final stir. The lemon adds a fresh tang that brightens the dish.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with roti, paratha, or steamed rice.
Tips & Variations
“For extra crunch, sauté the tindora on high heat initially for 2 minutes before lowering the heat to medium.”
To make this dish even more authentic, try using mustard oil. It adds a pungent aroma that complements the spices superbly.
If you prefer a tangier version, you can increase the lemon juice or add a pinch of dry mango powder (amchur). For a slightly different flavor profile, experiment with adding a few crushed peanuts or sesame seeds towards the end of cooking for some texture.
For a milder version, reduce the red chili powder and add a teaspoon of grated ginger for warmth without heat.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Vitamin C | 20% of daily value |
| Vitamin A | 15% of daily value |
Serving Suggestions
This tindora dish pairs wonderfully with traditional Gujarati staples such as Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or simple steamed basmati rice.
It also complements chapatis, parathas, or even a comforting Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for a fusion-style meal.
For a light and fresh contrast, enjoy it alongside a crisp salad such as the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
Conclusion
The Gujarati tindora recipe is a fantastic way to experience the authentic flavors of India’s western state, Gujarat. It’s simple, nutritious, and packed with a wonderful balance of spices that make it both comforting and exciting.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish promises to delight with its crunchy texture and harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes.
Not only does it celebrate the humble tindora, but it also shows how versatile Indian cooking can be with minimal ingredients and fuss. We hope you try this recipe soon and enjoy making it a regular part of your meal rotation.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Tindora Recipe Gujarati
Description: A simple and flavorful Gujarati-style tindora curry made with tender ivy gourd and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish with roti or rice.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 250 grams tindora (ivy gourd), washed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds and cumin seeds.
- When they splutter, add asafoetida and chopped tindora.
- Add turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, sugar, and salt.
- Mix well and cover the pan; cook on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once tindora is tender, add lemon juice and mix.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 12 g
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