To Prepare the Masala:
- To make the masala for this dosa side dish, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan and sauté the crushed garlic and 1-inch piece of ginger.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté well till they become soft.
- Add the tomato and continue to sauté till it becomes mushy.
- Add the coconut, dried red chilli, coriander seeds, poppy seeds, fennel and roasted gram dal and fry.
- When the spices release their aroma, turn the heat off. Let the masala cool down completely.
- Then, blend it to make a smooth paste adding 1/2 a cup of water. Set the masala aside.
To Prepare the Kurma:
- In a large pan or kadhai, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the cinnamon, cardamom and curry leaves.
- Add the onions set aside for this dosa side dish and the chilli. Sauté well till they become soft.
- Add the chopped tomato and sauté till it becomes mushy.
- Mix in the masala, turmeric, and salt. Let it fry until it becomes aromatic.
- Add 3 cups of water or as needed for the desired consistency.
- Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
- Add the chopped coriander seeds and mix well.
- When the masala is fully cooked, take it off the heat. Your special dosa side dish is ready to serve.
A dash of lemon juice elevates the flavours of this dosa side dish. You can add a few drops before serving it with dosas or idlis. This kurma is also the perfect match for a piping hot bowl of fluffy rice with your favourite pickle on the side.