Kulith Pithla: Maharashtrian Horse Gram Curry For Monsoons

By Devi Poojari

July 29, 2023

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Known to be the Konkan coast’s contribution to Indian superfoods, this savoury pithla – a thick curry to eat with rotis, is warming and nourishing while also being easy to make.

INGREDIENTS

½ cup horse gram flour 2 onions, sliced ½ cup freshly grated coconut 3 green chillies, chopped 5-6 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds ¼ teaspoon asafoetida 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 2 teaspoons red chilli powder ½ teaspoon garam masala 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Salt, to taste

METHOD

Combine the cumin, green chillies and garlic and grind to a fine paste.

METHOD

Add ¾ cup water to the horse gram flour and mix to a slurry without lumps.

METHOD

Heat the oil in a pan and temper the asafoetida, cumin and mustard seeds.

METHOD

Once they begin to splutter, add the ground masala and cook for a couple of minutes.

METHOD

Add the sliced onions and saute on a high heat so that they brown slightly.

METHOD

Add the spice powders and stir well, followed by gently pouring the flour slurry.

METHOD

Adjust the consistency of the mixture by adding 2 more cups of water and stirring well.

METHOD

Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring regularly, until it begins to thicken.

METHOD

Ensure that it reaches a consistency where it is pourable but not gloopy.

METHOD

Add the grated coconut and serve hot with roti, bhakri or rice.