Easy Turai / Turiya / Peerey (Ridge gourd) Subzi

Experience the deliciousness of Turai (ridge gourd) with this South Indian-style turiya or perey upkari recipe. It is a straightforward side dish made by stir-frying the gourd (or tori) and ending it with a coconut garnish. Do this tori recipe; it’ll surely delight your tastebuds.

What’s Turai / Turiya

There are different sorts of gourds present in India. Turai, Turiya, or Ridge gourd is one such variety with a green and ridged exterior and white pulp on the within. Considered a part of the cucumber family, this popular vegetable dish is usually cooked as a curry or a dry side dish.

In the event you grew up in India, you almost certainly had this vegetable, nevertheless it could have been called considered one of these names based on the state you got here from:

• Ridge gourd (English)
• Dodka (Marathi)
• Turai / Turi (Hindi)
• Turiya (Gujarati)
• Peerey (Tulu)
• Heerekayi (Kannada)
• Peerkangkai (Tamil)
• Beerakai (Telugu)
• Luffa or Lufah (scientific name)

Most grocery stores across the US carry turiya, nevertheless it is usually labeled as sin qua (Chinese name).

In the event you’re unfamiliar with turiya, it’s quite similar in taste to zucchini. Nevertheless, the true magic happens when it’s cooked and seasoned with a medley of spices. This straightforward transformation elevates turiya right into a dish that captivates many palates.

Although turiya could also be an acquired taste for some, its health advantages are a serious reason why many include it of their diets. This humble vegetable becomes a dietary powerhouse when seasoned and cooked, offering each flavor and wellness in every bite.

Health advantages

Turai is thought to have many health advantages, reminiscent of

• Helps with digestion
• Aids weight reduction
• Helps control diabetes
• Relieves constipation

To learn more concerning the health advantages, read this text – 5 advantages of adding ridge gourd to your weight-reduction plan.

Tips on how to select ridge gourd (turiya)

Selecting the proper turiya is crucial, as it may possibly sometimes be bitter. You would possibly have seen people taking a fast bite to check it, but there’s an easier, more practical method based on its appearance.

When picking turai, aim for a deep green color with none blemishes. The skin ought to be firm and moist-looking, with none dry patches or soft spots.

Remember, the freshness of your produce greatly influences the taste of your dish. So, take a moment to pick out your turiya fastidiously for one of the best culinary experience.

Tips on how to make this recipe

The recipe below is a straightforward South Indian or Mangalorean way of creating this dish and known as peerey or heerekayi upkari.

Ingredient notes

• For tempering – oil, mustard seeds, curry leaves
• Flavor enhancers – garlic cloves, onions, Thai green chilies, salt
• Key ingredient – ridge gourd or turiya
• Garnishing – grated coconut (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

Tips on how to chop

• Rinse the turai thoroughly.
• Use a peeler to peel off the skin across the ridges and surrounding areas. Discard the peel.
• Cut off the stem. Chop it lengthwise into half. Slice each half into 3 pieces. Make horizontal slits to dice them into 1/2-inch cubes.

Cooking instructions

• Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok. To it, add mustard seeds, and as they start to splutter, add curry leaves and garlic.
• After 10 seconds or so, add onions, green chilies, and salt. Fry it till the onions turn translucent.
• Add Turiya and let it cook covered for 10 minutes until it is finished. ( Note: You don’t must add water while cooking this vegetable. It releases water by itself).
• Garnish it with grated coconut (if using).

Tips on how to prep ahead

You’ll be able to chop the veggies and leave them within the refrigerator for 1-2 days or within the freezer for as much as a month. No must thaw it before cooking – just use it straight from the freezer.

Storage instructions

Turia bhaji may be refrigerated for as much as 2-3 days without impacting the taste.

Other Mangalorean side dishes it is best to try

This Turai (ridge gourd) recipe is fast, easy, and a must-try. With just just a few ingredients and easy steps, it delivers a delicious and satisfying side dish.

This recipe was first published on Dec 2, 2013, and completely updated with step-by-step pictures on October fifth, 2021, and November 27, 2023.