Chena Mezhukkupuratti / Elephant foot yam stir fry

Elephant foot yam (chena) is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids which are known to build up good cholesterol levels in the blood. Here is the recipe of Chena Mezhukkupuratti (Elephant foot yam stir fry) which is a good accompaniment with rice. Try it and post your valuable comments.

Ingredients

1. Elephant foot yam (ചേന) - 2 Cup
2. Thinly sliced Coconut (തേങ്ങ അരിഞ്ഞത്‌) - ¼ Cup (Optional)
3. Shallot (ചെറിയ ഉള്ളി) - 8 Nos
4. Curry leaves (കറിവേപ്പില) - 1 Sprig
5. Coriander powder (മല്ലിപ്പൊടി) - 1 Table Spoon
6. Chilli powder (മുളകുപൊടി) - 1 Tea spoon
7. Pepper powder (കുരുമുളകുപൊടി) - ½ Tea Spoon
8. Turmeric powder (മഞ്ഞള്‍പൊടി) - 1 Pinch
9. Coconut Oil (വെളിച്ചെണ്ണ) - 3 Table Spoon
10. Mustard seeds (കടുക്) - ½ Tea Spoon
11. Salt (ഉപ്പ്) – To taste

Method

Step 1

Peel and slice the yam into 1 inch pieces (See images in the bottom of this page)

Step 2

Slice coconut and shallots and keep aside.

Step 3

Heat 3 table spoon of coconut oil in a non-stick pan and put mustard seeds. When it splutters, to this add sliced coconut and shallots. Saute it till the shallots turns golden brown.

Step 4

Reduce the flame and put coriander, chilli and turmeric powders into it and stir well. To this add yam, curry leaves and salt. Combine well. Cook it covered (about 12 minutes) by adding ½ cup of water on a low flame till done.

Step 5

Open the lid, put ½ tea spoon pepper powder and cook it for 1-2 minutes to make it dry. Stir it occasionally. Taste for salt.

Step 6

Remove from the flame and transfer the chena mezhukkupuratti to the serving dish.

Tips:

1) Garam masala (1 pinch) can be added for better taste.

2) Take care to wear gloves or grease your hand with oil before cutting elephant foot yam (chena) as sometimes it may have itching sensation.