Ulli Theeyal

Ulli Theeyal

Ulli Theeyal

Veg Vegan

A tangy and spicy curry made with small onions, roasted coconut, and spices, typically served with rice.

Cuisines

Kerala

Best for

Lunch Dinner

Recipe

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Total: 50 min 2-3 servings

Ingredients

15-20 small shallots (ulli)
1 cup grated coconut
1 tablespoon coriander seeds
5-6 dried red chilies
1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon tamarind paste
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 sprig curry leaves
1 cup water
salt to taste

Instructions

  1. 1 Peel the shallots and set them aside.
  2. 2 In a pan, dry roast the grated coconut until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
  3. 3 In the same pan, dry roast coriander seeds, dried red chilies, and fenugreek seeds until fragrant.
  4. 4 Grind the roasted coconut and spices into a smooth paste with a little water.
  5. 5 Heat coconut oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter.
  6. 6 Add curry leaves and the peeled shallots. Sauté until the shallots are translucent.
  7. 7 Add the ground coconut paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
  8. 8 Add tamarind paste and water to the mixture. Stir to combine.
  9. 9 Simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes until the gravy thickens and the flavors meld.
  10. 10 Adjust seasoning as needed and remove from heat.

Tips

For a richer taste, roast the coconut until it is a deep brown color without burning it.