# Recipe for Saravana Bhavan Kurma: A Hotel-Style Vegetable Curry from Tamil Nadu
## Introduction
The Saravana Bhavan kurma is a cherished dish that recalls fond memories of home-cooked meals and the rich culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu. This vegetable curry, typically enjoyed with parotta, chapati, idiyappam, dosa, or puri, is a common item in numerous households and eateries, especially at the famous Hotel Saravana Bhavan. This article will assist you in preparing this fragrant and tasty kurma, drawing inspiration from traditional recipes.
## The Essence of Saravana Bhavan Kurma
The distinct flavor of Saravana Bhavan kurma arises from a mix of fresh ingredients and fragrant spices. The inclusion of dried bay leaves, fresh mint leaves, and the unique black stone flower (kalpasi) differentiates this dish from other kurmas. Kalpasi, recognized for its potent aroma, is a crucial ingredient that enhances the curry’s overall taste.
## Ingredients
### For the Kurma:
– Mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, potatoes, cauliflower)
– Fresh coconut (grated)
– Green chilies
– Fennel seeds
– Cloves
– Cinnamon
– Cardamom
– Cashew nuts
– Fried gram dal (or khuskhus seeds)
– Dried bay leaf
– Fresh mint leaves
– Black stone flower (kalpasi)
– Salt, to taste
– Oil (for tempering)
– Beaten curd or lemon juice (for finishing)
## Preparation Steps
1. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Cut the mixed vegetables into small pieces. Partially steam cook the vegetables, and blanch the cauliflower florets in salted boiling water for a few minutes.
2. **Make the Spice Paste**: In a blender, combine the grated coconut, green chilies, fennel seeds, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, cashew nuts, and fried gram dal. Add a little water and blend until a fine paste is formed.
3. **Tempering**: Heat oil in a pan and add the dried bay leaf, fresh mint leaves, and black stone flower. Sauté until aromatic.
4. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the steamed vegetables to the pan, along with the ground spice paste. Mix thoroughly and cook for a few minutes.
5. **Finish the Kurma**: Stir in a spoonful of beaten curd or lemon juice for a tangy flavor. Adjust the salt to taste.
6. **Serve**: The kurma is now ready to serve. It pairs excellently with idiyappam, chapati, parotta, dosa, or puri.
## Serving Suggestions
Saravana Bhavan kurma is a versatile dish that goes well with various Indian breads and rice dishes. It can also be relished with flavorful rice like vegetable pulao, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
## Conclusion
The Saravana Bhavan kurma is more than just a vegetable curry; it embodies the essence of Tamil Nadu’s culinary tradition. With its distinctive spices and rich flavors, this kurma is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe and savor the authentic taste of South Indian cuisine right in your home.