Tangy Baby Eggplant Curry (Kathirikkai Pulikulambu): Authentic South Indian Recipe

35 minutes

973 reads

4.41 from 5 votes

About Tangy Baby Eggplant Curry (Kathirikkai Pulikulambu): Authentic South Indian Recipe

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Kathirikkai Pulikulambu, a cherished South Indian tangy eggplant curry. This recipe, passed down through generations, evokes warm memories of my mother's loving kitchen, where the tantalizing aroma of this dish filled our home weekly.
Tender baby eggplants simmer in a rich blend of spices and tamarind, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Traditionally enjoyed with steamed rice, this curry also pairs beautifully with crispy fish (like sardines) or a fluffy egg omelet. A delightful vegetarian option is to serve it alongside cabbage stir-fry and crunchy papadums.
Prepare to savor the authentic taste of South India with this simple yet deeply satisfying recipe. The perfect balance of tangy and comforting flavors makes this dish a true family favorite.
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 ₹399.

Explore Meal Plans

Recipe Time & More

Prep10 minutes
Cook25 minutes
Total35 minutes
Calories116 kcal
Serves5
Served AsLunch

Ingredients
 

Eggplant & Vegetables

  • 6 medium Eggplant also known as brinjal; baby eggplants are best; chopped
  • 1 medium Onion chopped
  • 1 medium Tomato chopped

Spices & Seasonings

Other Ingredients

  • 1 Tamarind about the size of a lemon; make into a paste or use tamarind pulp
  • 1 tbsp Oil vegetable or coconut oil
  • 1 cup Water or as needed for desired consistency
Start Focussed Cooking Mode →

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Finely chop the onion and tomato.
  • Wash and cut the eggplants into four lengthwise halves. Soak them in water to prevent discoloration.
  • Prepare tamarind pulp by soaking the tamarind in warm water for about 15 minutes, then squeezing out the pulp and discarding the seeds.

Cooking the Curry

  • Heat oil in a pressure cooker. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Wait until they splutter.
  • Add curry leaves and sauté briefly.
  • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened and mushy.
  • Add the eggplants, turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Sauté for a few minutes until the eggplant softens slightly and the raw smell disappears.
  • Pour in the tamarind pulp and add 1 cup of water. Mix well.
  • Bring to a boil, then close the pressure cooker lid and cook for 2 whistles.
  • Once the pressure releases naturally, open the lid and simmer on medium heat until the gravy thickens and oil separates.
  • Serve hot with steamed rice, fish fry, or your favorite accompaniments.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Kathirikkai Pulikulambu

  • For a richer flavor, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
  • Soaking the eggplants prevents them from becoming bitter and dark during cooking.
  • If the gravy is too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4.41 from 5 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 116kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 8gFat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2.7gMonounsaturated Fat: 5.4gSodium: 684mgSugar: 1g

Madraasi Deepa
Madraasi Deepa

Full-time blogger, mother, food reviewer, product reviewer, and lover of exploring historical places and fashion.

Articles: 146
30-Day Indian Vegetarian Weight Loss Meal Plan

Guest Post / Advertise on Plattershare

Writers, food bloggers & brands - collaborate with us

See Details

5 Comments

4.41 from 5 votes

Leave a Reply