Tomato Sheer is a mouth-watering South Indian curry made with juicy tomatoes, freshly grated coconut, and an aromatic blend of spices. This dish offers a creamy, tangy flavour profile that pairs perfectly with rice or flatbreads. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that brings a taste of traditional Indian cuisine to your table.
About the Recipe
Why should you try Tomato Sheer? This recipe combines the tanginess of tomatoes with the creamy richness of coconut milk, enhanced by a blend of spices that includes mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves. This dish from South India, Tomato Sheer, is delicious and versatile, allowing easy customization based on your spice preferences. Fresh coconut extract adds a unique depth of flavour, making this curry a standout dish in any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a rewarding cooking experience with straightforward steps and delightful results.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Tomato Sheer is a recipe that will quickly become a favourite in your kitchen. Its rich, creamy texture and tangy, spicy flavours create a perfect balance that is comforting and exciting. The use of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and coconut makes this dish not only delicious but also wholesome. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce yourself to South Indian cuisine if you’re not already familiar with it. The simplicity of the cooking process, combined with the complexity of the flavours, ensures that you’ll enjoy every moment of preparing and eating this dish.
Tomato Sheer
Cooking Tips
To get the best results:
- Ensure your tomatoes are ripe and juicy. They’ll provide the best flavour and texture for the curry.
- When frying the spices, be careful not to burn them; they should be fragrant but not overly browned.
- Stir continuously when adding the coconut extract and gram flour mixture to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
Cultural Context
Tomato Sheer hails from South India, a region known for its vibrant and flavorful cuisine. This dish is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, reflecting the area’s rich culinary heritage. It’s a testament to the region’s love for combining fresh, local ingredients in inventive ways.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Tomato Sheer is best served hot with steamed rice, dosa, or chapati. It makes for a delightful meal that can serve 4-6 people. This dish is relatively quick to prepare, taking about 40 minutes from start to finish and 30 minutes of active cooking time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Other Similar Recipes
- Sambar
- Rasam
- Coconut Curry
- Tomato Chutney
Nutrient Benefits
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, providing antioxidants that benefit your skin and immune system. Coconut is an excellent source of healthy fats essential for brain function and maintaining energy levels. Combined, these ingredients make Tomato Sheer not only tasty but also nutritious.
Tomato Sheer
Ingredients
- 2 Onions (finely chopped)
- 4 Green Chillies (sliced)
- 1/2 inch Ginger (crushed)
- 3/4 tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1/2 kg Tomatoes (finely chopped)
- Oil for frying
- 10 Cashewnuts (fried)
- 3/4 cup Grated Fresh Coconut
- 1/4 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1/2 tsp Cumin Seeds
- Curry Leaves (few)
- Asafoetida Powder (a pinch)
- 2 tbsp Bengalgram Flour
- Salt (as required)
- 1 tsp Sugar - 1 tsp
- 1 tbsp Coriander Leaves (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep pan; add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add asafoetida and curry leaves.
- Add onions, ginger, and green chillies. Fry until the onions turn golden brown.
- Add tomatoes and cook until they become pulpy.
- Stir in the red chilli powder and turmeric powder.
- Mix Bengal gram flour with the second coconut extract and pour gently over the tomato mixture.
- Stir for a few minutes and add salt and sugar.
- Cook on reduced flame and pour in the thick first coconut extract. Once it begins to boil, remove from heat.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and fried cashew nuts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make Tomato Sheer less spicy?
To make Tomato Sheer less spicy, reduce the number of green chillies and the amount of red chilli powder. You can also remove the seeds from the chillies before slicing them. Adjusting these ingredients will help you control the heat to suit your taste.
Can I use canned coconut milk instead of fresh coconut?
Yes, you can use canned coconut milk if fresh coconut is unavailable. Use one can of coconut milk, and skip the step of extracting coconut milk from grated coconut. This will save time and still give you a rich, creamy texture.
What can I serve with Tomato Sheer?
Tomato Sheer pairs well with steamed rice, dosa, or chapati. For a complete meal, you can also serve it with other South Indian dishes like Sambar or Rasam. Adding a side of pickles or papadum will enhance the overall dining experience.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Tomato Sheer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
Is Tomato Sheer vegan?
Yes, Tomato Sheer is a vegan dish. It uses plant-based ingredients like tomatoes, coconut, and spices. It’s a great option for those following a vegan diet and looking for flavorful, nutritious meals.
