Punjabi Kathal Masala

Punjabi Kathal Masala, also known as Jackfruit Masala, is a delightful vegetarian dish from the Punjabi cuisine. Made with tender jackfruit cooked in a rich and spicy masala gravy, it is a popular and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams tender jackfruit (kathal), cleaned and cut into chunks
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust according to spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons red chili powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds to the hot oil and sauté for a few seconds until they start to splutter.
3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
5. Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook until the oil separates from the mixture and the tomatoes are well cooked.
6. Now, add the jackfruit chunks to the pan and mix well with the onion-tomato mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the jackfruit is slightly browned.
7. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the jackfruit with the spices.
8. Pour in the yogurt and mix it into the masala. Cook for a couple of minutes to incorporate the flavors.
9. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the jackfruit simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until it is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally.
10. Sprinkle garam masala over the masala and give it a final stir.
11. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
12. Serve the Punjabi Kathal Masala hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Punjabi Kathal Masala is a delightful vegetarian dish with tender jackfruit chunks in a spicy and aromatic masala gravy. The combination of spices and yogurt adds richness and depth to the dish. Enjoy the flavors of Punjab with this delicious and satisfying Kathal Masala.