Idichakka (Tender jackfruit) Masala Thoran

Ingredients (Serves 5)

1. Idichakka / tender jackfruit (fresh / frozen) – 250 – 300 gm

Jackfruit seeds – 5 – 6, cut into small pieces

2. Coconut oil – 1.5 tbsp

Mustard seeds –  3/4 tsp

Dried red chilies – 2, broken

3. Onion – 1 medium, chopped

Green chilies – 2, diagonally sliced

Curry leaves – 1 sprig

Thenga kothu – 1/4 cup

4. Turmeric powder – 1/2 tsp

Chilly powder – 1/2 tsp

Coriander powder – 1/2 tsp

Garam masala powder – 1/2 – 3/4 tsp or to taste

5. Grated coconut – 3/4 cup

6. Salt – To taste

Method

1. Steam cook the tender jackfruit pieces until done. (OR You can place them covered in a pan and cook it over low heat adding little water. It would not take more than 5 – 7 minutes. Do not overcook.) Cool down.

2. Crush the cooked tender jackfruit by pulsing in the small jar of a blender in 2 – 3 batches.

3. Heat coconut oil in a kadai over medium-high heat. Splutter mustard seeds and fry dried red chilies. Add onion, green chilies, curry leaves, thenga kothu and saute until onion turns translucent. Add turmeric powder, chilly powder, coriander powder and garam masala powder. Saute until raw smell leaves. Add crushed idichakka /jackfruit, salt and mix well. Bring everything to the center. Sprinkle 1 – 2 tbsp water. Cover and cook over low heat for 8 – 10 minutes. Add grated coconut and mix well. Taste-check for salt and more masala powder, if required. Cook for a few more minutes. Switch off.