Chow Chow Fry Recipe Easy Cooking Home Procedure Steps
Know the details about the Chow Chow Fry Recipe Easy Cooking Home Procedure Steps, Chow Chow Fry Recipe Easy Cooking Process
Chow Chow Fry Recipe: A Complete Guide
Introduction
Chow Chow fry, a beloved South Indian dish, features the mild and versatile chow chow vegetable, also known as chayote. This blog post provides a detailed guide on preparing this flavorful and nutritious recipe.
Chow Chow Fry Recipe Easy Cooking Home Procedure Steps
About Chow Chow
Chow chow, or chayote, is a light green, wrinkled squash that is popular in many cuisines, especially in South India. It is known for its mild flavor and crunchy texture, making it perfect for stir-fries.
History and Importance
Chow chow has been cultivated for centuries and is a staple in South Indian cooking. Its versatility and nutritional benefits have made it an integral part of various dishes, from sambars to stir-fries. The chow chow fry is particularly cherished for its simplicity and ability to complement any meal.
Items Required and Quantity
Ingredients
- Chow Chow (Chayote): 2 medium-sized (roughly 500 grams)
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Green Chilies: 2, slit
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Mustard Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Urad Dal: 1 teaspoon
- Curry Leaves: A handful
- Salt: To taste
- Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Grated Coconut: 2 tablespoons (optional)
Estimated Cost
The estimated cost for the complete recipe is around INR 100-150.
Utensils Needed and Quantity
- Cutting Board: 1
- Knife: 1
- Mixing Bowl: 1
- Frying Pan or Kadai: 1
- Spatula: 1
- Measuring Spoons: 1 set
Cooking Temperature Details
Cook the chow chow fry on medium heat to ensure the vegetable cooks evenly without burning the spices.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Vitamin C: 15% of the daily recommended value
- Potassium: 9% of the daily recommended value
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Procedure Overview
The chow chow fry involves sautéing spices and onions, adding the chopped chow chow, and cooking until tender. Optionally, grated coconut can be added for extra flavor.
Detailed Step-by-Step Cooking Procedure
Preparation
- Peel and Chop: Peel the chow chow and chop it into small cubes.
- Chop Onions and Garlic: Finely chop the onions and mince the garlic.
- Slit Green Chilies: Slit the green chilies lengthwise.
Cooking
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a frying pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Temper Spices: Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add urad dal and fry until golden brown.
- Add Aromatics: Add curry leaves, slit green chilies, and minced garlic. Sauté for a minute.
- Sauté Onions: Add finely chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent.
- Add Spices: Add turmeric powder and red chili powder. Mix well.
- Add Chow Chow: Add the chopped chow chow and mix to coat the pieces with the spices.
- Season and Simmer: Add salt to taste. Cover and cook on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until the chow chow becomes tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Optional Addition: If using grated coconut, add it in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Final Stir: Give a final stir and turn off the heat.
Tips
- Ensure the chow chow is fresh for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference.
- Adding a pinch of asafoetida during tempering can enhance the flavor.
Serving Procedure
Serve the chow chow fry hot as a side dish with rice or chapati.
Serving Decoration Ideas
Garnish the dish with fresh coriander leaves and a sprinkle of grated coconut for a visually appealing presentation.
Best Combined With
Chow chow fry pairs well with steamed rice, dal, and sambar.
Should Not Be Combined With
Avoid combining chow chow fry with dishes that have a strong, overpowering flavor, as it may overshadow the delicate taste of the fry.
Eating Process
Enjoy chow chow fry by mixing it with rice or having it alongside roti. Each bite offers a burst of simple yet delightful flavors.
Recipe Health Tips
- Use minimal oil to keep the dish light and healthy.
- Incorporate grated coconut sparingly to avoid excess calories.
- Opt for organic chow chow if available.
Recipe Health Benefits
- Chow chow is rich in fiber, aiding digestion.
- High in vitamins like C and B6, promoting overall health.
- Low in calories, making it a good option for weight management.
Recipe Health Warnings
- Excessive consumption of coconut can increase calorie intake.
- Overuse of oil can lead to higher fat content.
Things to Know
- Freshness of chow chow is key; always check for firm and unblemished vegetables.
- Cook on medium heat to retain the nutritional value.
- Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chow chow for this recipe?
Fresh chow chow is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen can be used if fresh is unavailable.
How do I store leftover chow chow fry?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat before serving.
Is chow chow fry suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan.
Can I skip the coconut in the recipe?
Yes, the coconut is optional and the dish will still taste delicious without it.
What other spices can I add to the chow chow fry?
You can add a pinch of cumin powder or coriander powder for additional flavor.
Conclusion
Chow Chow fry is a delightful and nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare. With this detailed guide, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the simplicity and goodness of this South Indian classic!
