Cabbage Thoran is a classic South Indian side dish made from finely shredded cabbage, coconut, and simple spices. It’s a dry stir-fry, commonly served with rice and other curries, making it a staple in Kerala cuisine. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and quick to prepare. The combination of aromatic mustard seeds, curry leaves, and freshly grated coconut gives the cabbage a flavorful yet light taste. It’s a perfect balance of textures—tender cabbage and crunchy coconut—making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cabbage, finely shredded
- ½ cup grated coconut
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 dried red chilies
- 8-10 curry leaves
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the seasoning: Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the chopped onions and green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
- Add cabbage and spices: Add the shredded cabbage, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to combine everything. Cover the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender but still retains some crunch.
- Add coconut: Once the cabbage is cooked, stir in the grated coconut and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the coconut is well mixed and slightly toasted.
- Serve: Turn off the heat and serve the Cabbage Thoran hot with steamed rice or as a side dish with other curries.
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish!
