Kaalan
Veg
A thick, tangy yoghurt-based preparation of raw banana and elephant yam, flavoured with grated coconut, black pepper, and dried chilli. Served at sadya, kaalan is prized for its bold sourness and creamy texture.
Cuisines
Travancore
Kerala
Best for
Lunch
Dinner
Recipe
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 30 min
Total: 45 min
2-3 servings
Ingredients
| 1 cup | raw plantain, peeled and diced |
| 1 cup | elephant yam, peeled and diced |
| 1 teaspoon | turmeric powder |
| 0.5 teaspoon | black pepper powder |
| 1 cup | thick yogurt |
| 0.5 cup | grated coconut |
| 2 teaspoons | cumin seeds |
| 2 cloves | garlic |
| 1 teaspoon | mustard seeds |
| 1 sprig | curry leaves |
| 2 tablespoons | coconut oil |
| — | salt to taste |
Instructions
- 1 In a pot, add the diced plantain and yam along with turmeric powder, black pepper powder, and salt.
- 2 Add enough water to cover the vegetables and cook until they are tender.
- 3 While the vegetables are cooking, grind the grated coconut, cumin seeds, garlic, and green chilies into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary.
- 4 Once the vegetables are cooked, add the coconut paste to the pot and mix well.
- 5 Reduce the heat and add the thick yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
- 6 Cook the mixture on low heat for a few minutes until it thickens. Adjust salt if needed.
- 7 In a small pan, heat coconut oil and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add curry leaves.
- 8 Pour the tempering over the kaalan and mix well.
- 9 Serve hot with rice.
Tips
Ensure the yogurt is at room temperature to prevent curdling when added to the hot mixture.