Chilakada Dumpala Pulusu | Sweet Potato Stew | Shakarkand Curry

Introduction

Chilakada Dumpala Pulusu, also known as Sweet Potato Stew or Shakarkand Curry, is a traditional and cherished dish in Telugu cuisine, particularly popular in South Indian households. This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a tangy tamarind base and a blend of aromatic spices, resulting in a symphony of sweet, spicy, and sour flavors that delight the palate. The dish is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Typically enjoyed with steamed rice and mudda pappu (thick dal), Chilakada Dumpala Pulusu is comfort food at its finest. In this recipe, we'll guide you through each step to prepare this flavorful and nutritious stew, ensuring that even beginners can recreate this authentic taste in their own kitchens.

Preparation time: 10 Minutes
Cooking time: 25 Minutes
Main ingredient: Sweet potato
Course: Main
Yield: Serves 3-4
Measurement used: 1 bowl = 250ml

Quick Navigation:

• Ingredients
• For Tempering (Talimpu)
• Other Ingredients
• Procedure
• Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
• Step 2: Tempering the Spices
• Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
• Step 4: Adding Seasonings
• Step 5: Incorporating Tomatoes and Drumsticks
• Step 6: Simmering the Stew
• Step 7: Adding Tamarind Mixture
• Step 8: Sweetening with Jaggery
• Step 9: Final Touches
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients. Having everything prepared in advance will make the cooking process seamless and more enjoyable.

Sweet Potatoes: 1/2 kg (washed and peeled)

Drumsticks: 2 sticks (cut into pieces)

Tomatoes: 1 or 2 medium-sized, chopped

Onion: 1 large, chopped

Green Chillies: 2-3, sliced lengthwise

Tamarind: A big lemon-sized ball soaked in water or Tamarind Paste: 2-3 teaspoons

Mashed Jaggery: 1-2 teaspoons (adjust to taste)

For Tempering (Talimpu)

The tempering process, known as talimpu in Telugu, is crucial for infusing the stew with aromatic flavors. Ensure the oil is hot enough to release the essence of the spices.

Dry Red Chilli: 1

Fenugreek Seeds: 1/4 teaspoon

Cumin Seeds: 1/2 teaspoon

Mustard Seeds: 1/2 teaspoon

Garlic Pods: 3-4, crushed

Curry Leaves: A handful

Other Ingredients

These ingredients help in balancing the flavors and adding depth to the stew.

Salt: To taste

Red Chilli Powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust for spice level)

Turmeric Powder: 1/4 teaspoon

Oil: 2-3 teaspoons (preferably sesame or vegetable oil)

Procedure

Follow these steps to prepare the Chilakada Dumpala Pulusu.

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. Peeling is optional but recommended to remove any bitterness from the skin. Cut the sweet potatoes into medium-sized cubes for even cooking.

Chop the onions into medium-sized pieces. This ensures they blend well into the stew without completely dissolving.

Slice the green chillies lengthwise. Adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level.

Chop the tomatoes into small pieces to help them break down quickly during cooking.

Step 2: Tempering the Spices

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the dry red chilli and let it sizzle for a few seconds. Then add fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, and mustard seeds sequentially, allowing each to crackle before adding the next. This process releases the essential oils and enhances the stew's flavor.

Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables

Add the chopped onions and sliced green chillies to the tempered spices. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent and the chillies release their spice. This forms the flavor base for the stew.

Step 4: Adding Seasonings

Sprinkle turmeric powder and a pinch of salt over the sautéed onions and chillies. Turmeric adds a vibrant color and earthy flavor to the stew. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes to let the spices blend.

Step 5: Incorporating Tomatoes and Drumsticks

Add the chopped tomatoes and drumstick pieces to the pan. Sauté for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices. This adds tanginess and depth to the stew.

Step 6: Simmering the Stew

Cover the pan with a lid and let the vegetables cook on medium heat for about 5-6 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.

Step 7: Adding Tamarind Mixture

Once the vegetables are partially cooked, add the tamarind paste or tamarind water to the pan. Pour in two bowls of water (adjust according to desired consistency) and stir well. Let the stew simmer for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 8: Sweetening with Jaggery

Add the mashed jaggery to the stew and stir until it dissolves completely. The jaggery balances the tanginess of the tamarind and enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Allow the stew to simmer for 10-15 minutes on low heat.

Step 9: Final Touches

Finally, add red chilli powder to adjust the spice level. Stir well and let the stew cook until it reaches your desired consistency. The stew should be thick and flavorful, coating the vegetables nicely. Taste and adjust salt or spices if necessary.

Conclusion

Your delicious and aromatic Chilakada Dumpala Pulusu is now ready to be served! This sweet and sour stew is a perfect example of the rich culinary traditions of Telugu cuisine. Serve it hot with steamed rice and mudda pappu (thick toor dal) for a wholesome and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight your family and guests. Enjoy this hearty dish and savor the taste of authentic South Indian home cooking.

This stew pairs perfectly with steamed rice and mudda pappu (thick dal).

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q) What is the key nutritional benefit of sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly rich in vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), vitamin C, and potassium, which support eye health, immune function, and heart health.

Q) How do you select fresh drumsticks?
When choosing drumsticks, look for ones that are firm, green, and unblemished. They should snap easily when bent. Avoid drumsticks that are wilted or have brown spots.

Q) Can I make this stew without drumsticks?
Yes, you can customize the stew based on the ingredients available. If drumsticks are not available, you can substitute them with other vegetables like eggplant or okra.

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