Kallummakkaya Ularthiyathu, also known as Spicy Mussels Stir Fry, is a popular seafood dish from the state of Kerala, India. It’s made with fresh mussels cooked with a flavorful blend of spices and coconut. Here’s how you can prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh mussels (cleaned and debearded)
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 cup grated coconut
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Instructions:
- Clean the Mussels:
- Rinse the mussels thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or sand.
- Debeard the mussels by removing the fibrous threads (if any) attached to the shells. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.
- Prepare the Masala Paste:
- In a small bowl, combine turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Mix well with a little water to form a smooth paste. Set aside.
- Cooking:
- Heat coconut oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add curry leaves and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes turn mushy.
- Now, add the masala paste prepared earlier. Cook for a couple of minutes until the raw smell of the spices goes away.
- Add cleaned mussels to the pan. Mix well to coat the mussels with the masala.
- Cover the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mussels are cooked through. Stir occasionally.
- Once the mussels are cooked, add grated coconut and mix well.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the coconut is well combined with the mussels and the mixture is dry.
- Adjust salt according to taste.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh curry leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or appam.
Enjoy the delicious Kallummakkaya Ularthiyathu as a flavorful seafood dish!
