Kovakkai Poriyal (Ivy Gourd Stir-Fry): A Simple South Indian Side Dish

30 minutes

1151 reads

4.67 from 3 votes

About Kovakkai Poriyal (Ivy Gourd Stir-Fry): A Simple South Indian Side Dish

Craving a taste of South India? This vibrant Kovakkai Poriyal (Ivy Gourd Stir-Fry) is bursting with flavor and surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight side.
Tender ivy gourd is sautéed with fragrant shallots, spicy green chilies, and aromatic curry leaves, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. A touch of fresh coconut adds a delicate sweetness and satisfying finish.
Pair this quick and healthy dish with fluffy rice and comforting dal for an authentic South Indian meal that will transport your taste buds.
30-Day Indian Vegetarian Weight Loss Meal Plan

Stop Thinking About What to Cook Every Day

Weight loss, PCOS, and Healthy Eating, all planned out for you. Just follow the plan and cook. From ₹499.

Explore Meal Plans

Recipe Time & More

Prep10 minutes
Cook20 minutes
Total30 minutes
Calories95 kcal
Serves3
Served AsDinnerLunch
Recipe TasteSaltySpicy

Ingredients
 

Produce

Spices and Oil

Start Focussed Cooking Mode →

Instructions
 

  • Heat the coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
    Kovakkai Poriyal (Ivy Gourd Stir-Fry): A Simple South Indian Side Dish - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Add the ivy gourd, chopped green chilies, and curry leaves to the pan. Stir well to combine.
  • Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the ivy gourd to soften slightly.
  • Add the turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
    Kovakkai Poriyal (Ivy Gourd Stir-Fry): A Simple South Indian Side Dish - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, uncovered, over medium heat, stirring frequently. This allows the ivy gourd to cook through and the flavors to meld.
  • Finally, stir in the fresh coconut slices. This adds a touch of sweetness and a pleasant textural contrast.
  • Remove the pan from the heat. Serve the Kovakkai Poriyal hot with rice.

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

  • For an extra-crispy texture, slice the ivy gourd thinly and spread them out in the pan without overcrowding; cook on medium-high heat for a few extra minutes before adding coconut.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, deseed the green chilies before chopping, or substitute with slit dried red chilies for a more traditional touch.
  • Leftover poriyal can be used as a filling for South Indian-style wraps or sandwiches, paired with a smear of chutney and soft roti or bread.
  • For a vegan version that is also oil-free, dry roast the ivy gourd and spices in a nonstick pan, then add coconut at the end for moisture and flavor.

Expert Tips

  • Toasting the spices before adding them to the pan will enhance their flavor and aroma, adding depth to the poriyal.
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a touch of tanginess.
  • For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger along with the green chilies.

Storage Instructions

  • Store leftover ivy gourd poriyal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat before serving.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4.67 from 3 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.8gSodium: 133mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g

Akum Raj Jamir
Akum Raj Jamir

A foodie and a passionate cook. Loves everything about food. I love experimenting with food in my kitchen and develop new recipes.

Articles: 153
30-Day Indian Vegetarian Weight Loss Meal Plan

Guest Post / Advertise on Plattershare

Writers, food bloggers & brands - collaborate with us

See Details

3 Comments

4.67 from 3 votes

Leave a Reply