Gongura Pachadi Brahmin Style – Traditional Andhra Recipe
by Bhimas Cook ·
Try this Sattvic Gongura Pachadi Brahmin Style, a tangy Andhra chutney made without garlic & onions. Perfect with rice & ghee! Easy homemade recipe!
Table of Contents
ToggleGongura Pachadi Brahmin Style – Traditional Andhra Recipe
About Gongura Pachadi Brahmin Style
Gongura Pachadi Brahmin Style is a simple and flavorful Andhra-style chutney made with gongura leaves (sorrel leaves), green chilies, and minimal spices, following the Sattvic cooking principles of the Brahmin community. Unlike the traditional version, this pachadi does not include garlic or onions, making it a pure, temple-style dish that can be offered as prasad or consumed during vrat (fasting).
Importance of Gongura Pachadi Brahmin Style
✔ Cultural Significance: Common in Brahmin households and temples.
✔ Health Benefits: Gongura is rich in iron and antioxidants, aiding digestion and immunity.
✔ Sattvic Cooking: No garlic or onion, ensuring lightness and purity.
✔ Pairs Well with South Indian Meals: Complements dal, sambar, rasam, and rice.
Ingredients Required
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Gongura Leaves (Sorrel Leaves) | 2 cups (tightly packed) |
Green Chillies | 6-8 |
Tamarind (Optional) | Small piece |
Mustard Seeds | 1 tsp |
Urad Dal (Black Gram) | 1 tsp |
Chana Dal (Bengal Gram) | 1 tsp |
Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
Cumin Seeds | ½ tsp |
Fenugreek Seeds (Methi) | ¼ tsp |
Turmeric Powder | ¼ tsp |
Hing (Asafoetida) | ¼ tsp |
Grated Coconut (Optional) | 2 tbsp |
Salt | As per taste |
Oil (Preferably Sesame Oil) | 2 tbsp |
Estimated Cost (in INR)
The total estimated cost for this recipe is ₹50-₹80, depending on the availability of ingredients.
Utensils Required
Utensil | Quantity |
---|---|
Frying Pan | 1 |
Blender/Mortar & Pestle | 1 |
Mixing Bowl | 1 |
Spatula | 1 |
Cooking Temperature Details
✔ Sauteing Gongura Leaves: Medium Flame
✔ Tempering Spices: Medium-Low Flame
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 70-90 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 3g
- Iron: 12% of Daily Value
- Vitamin C: High
Cooking & Preparation Time
Process | Time Required |
---|---|
Preparation | 10 minutes |
Cooking | 15 minutes |
Total Time | 25 minutes |
Cooking Procedure Overview
- Prepare the Gongura – Wash and dry the leaves properly.
- Saute the Leaves – Cook them in oil until soft.
- Grind with Spices – Blend with green chilies, tamarind, and grated coconut.
- Prepare Tempering – Fry mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, and red chilies.
- Mix & Serve – Combine everything and serve with hot rice.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cleaning the Gongura Leaves
✔ Wash the gongura leaves thoroughly to remove dirt.
✔ Drain and let them dry completely before use.
Step 2: Sauteing the Gongura Leaves
✔ Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan and add gongura leaves.
✔ Saute for 5-6 minutes until they become soft and wilted.
✔ Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 3: Grinding the Pachadi
✔ In a blender or mortar & pestle, grind together:
- Sauteed gongura leaves
- Roasted green chillies
- Salt
- Turmeric powder
- (Optional) Tamarind for extra tanginess
- Grated coconut (if using, for a mild sweetness)
✔ Grind coarsely to retain a traditional chunky texture.
Step 4: Preparing the Tempering
✔ Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan.
✔ Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, urad dal, chana dal, fenugreek seeds, dry red chillies, and hing.
✔ Let them splutter and turn golden brown.
Step 5: Mixing and Serving
✔ Add the ground gongura mixture to the pan.
✔ Mix well and cook for 2 more minutes.
✔ Serve hot with steamed rice and ghee.
Tips for Cooking & Enhancing Flavors
✔ Use sesame oil for a traditional taste.
✔ Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing green chillies.
✔ Use freshly grated coconut for a mildly sweet contrast to the sourness.
✔ Dry roast fenugreek seeds separately to enhance aroma.
Serving Procedure & Decoration Ideas
- Serve hot with steamed rice and a dollop of ghee.
- Pair it with pappu (dal), rasam, or sambar for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for extra freshness.
Best Food Combinations
✅ Hot rice + ghee – Classic Andhra-style meal.
✅ Dal or sambar – Balances out the tanginess.
✅ Jowar/Bajra Roti – For a healthier option.
❌ Avoid pairing with milk-based dishes like paneer or sweets, as it may cause digestion issues.
Eating Process for the Best Experience
✔ Mix steamed rice with gongura pachadi and ghee.
✔ Pair it with papad or roasted red chillies for crunch.
✔ Take small bites to enjoy the tangy and mildly spicy flavors.
Health Benefits & Warnings
Health Benefits
✔ Rich in Iron – Helps prevent anemia.
✔ Boosts Digestion – High fiber content supports gut health.
✔ Good for Heart Health – Uses heart-friendly ingredients like sesame oil.
Warnings
⚠ Not suitable for people with acidity issues – Gongura is naturally sour.
⚠ Avoid excessive salt – Can lead to water retention.
⚠ People with ulcers should consume in moderation due to the heat from green chillies.
Storage Instructions for Leftovers
✔ Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat with a little oil before serving.
✔ Do not freeze as it alters the texture.
Things to Know
✔ There are two types of Gongura – Red-stemmed (more sour) and Green-stemmed (less sour).
✔ Gongura Pachadi tastes better after resting for a few hours.
✔ Adding more coconut balances the tangy flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I add garlic or onions?
No, Brahmin-style cooking avoids garlic and onions.
2. Can I reduce the tanginess of Gongura Pachadi?
Yes, use less gongura leaves or add coconut to balance the taste.
3. Is this recipe suitable for fasting?
Yes, it follows Sattvic food principles, making it ideal for vrat.
4. Can I use store-bought tamarind paste?
Yes, but use a small quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
Enjoy this divine Andhra delicacy! 😋