Nostalgic Comfort: My Grandma's Vegetable Stew Magic (Ishtu-Kerala Style Vegetable Stew)

Nostalgic Comfort: My Grandma's Vegetable Stew Magic

Introduction:

Being a proud Keralite, the aroma of Vegetable Stew has been woven into the fabric of my childhood. This delectable side dish, crafted with love and tradition, is the perfect dance partner for Appam, the breakfast delight that Kerala proudly claims as its own. Allow me to share a personal ode to this soul-warming curry that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also whispers stories of health and beauty from every simmering pot.

Ingredients:

Carrots - 3 (for a vibrant crunch)

Beans - 10 nos (for a playful twist)

Potatoes - 3 nos (for the hearty foundation)

Onions - 2 large (for the symphony of sweetness)

Ginger - 1 inch (for a touch of warmth)

Garlic - 2 cloves (for a subtle kick)

Green chilly - 2 nos (for a spicy serenade)

Green Cardamom - 2 (for a fragrant note)

Cinnamon stick - 1 (for a dash of nostalgia)

Cloves - 2 (for a hint of mystery)

Black pepper corns - 6-7, crushed (for a peppery heartbeat)

Cashew nuts - 6 (ground to a paste with water, for a creamy crescendo)

Thin coconut milk - 1 1/2 cups (for a light, coconutty embrace)

Thick coconut milk - 1 cup (for a rich, indulgent finale)

Salt (to season the memories)

Oil (for a touch of tradition)

Method:

Heat a pressure cooker, and let the magic unfold.

Add a splash of oil or ghee and toss in the green cardamoms, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Let them sauté until the kitchen fills with their enchanting aroma.

Introduce the finely chopped onions, green chilies, and ginger to the cooker. Saute them until they form a delightful medley, echoing the stories of generations past.

Now, let the stars of the show make their entrance. Add all the colorful vegetable pieces to the cooker and sauté for a brief two-minute dance.

Pour in half a cup of water, setting the stage for the thin coconut milk to join the performance. Let it simmer in the background, infusing each vegetable with the essence of Kerala.

Season this culinary symphony with salt, crushed peppercorns, cashew paste, thick coconut milk, and a sprinkle of curry leaves. Let the flavors harmonize over a gentle flame.

Simmer the flame for two minutes, allowing the stew to reach its flavorful crescendo.

Turn off the flame, and unveil the masterpiece. Serve hot with Appam, and savour the nostalgia with every bite.

Enjoy the heartwarming embrace of my Grandma's Vegetable Stew. This not only fuels the body, but also paints a portrait of health, beauty, and the timeless flavours of Kerala. Bon appétit!