Series Onam Series - the Sadhya, dish by dish Vada Kottu Curry

Vada Kottu Curry

Prep Time:

10 Minutes

Cook Time:

15 Minutes

Ready In Time:

25 Minutes

Serves:

3–4 Servings

Level:

Beginner

About the Recipe

Vada Kottu Curry is a distinctive dish often associated with traditional Travancore-style feasts. It combines the richness of coconut milk with soft potatoes and pieces of urad dal vada, which soak up the flavorful gravy and add texture to the dish. Mildly spiced and creamy, this curry balances comfort and indulgence, making it a memorable addition to festive meals like Onam Sadhya as well as special family lunches.

Ingredients

For the Base

¾ tbsp Coconut Oil
1 Medium Onion (Finely Chopped)

For the Potatoes & Spices

2 Medium Potatoes (~200 g, Diced)
¼ tsp Turmeric Powder
¼ tsp Pepper Powder
½ tsp Chilli Powder
1 tsp Coriander Powder
Salt to taste

For the Coconut Milk & Vada

150 ml Thin Coconut Milk (Second Extract)
200 ml Thick Coconut Milk (First Extract)
2 Small Urad Dal Vada (Store-bought or Homemade)
½ tsp Garam Masala

preparation

Step 1:Sauté the Base

Heat coconut oil in a pan.
Add finely chopped onions and sauté until light brown and translucent.

Step 2:Cook the Potatoes and Spices

Add diced potatoes to the sautéed onions and cook until slightly tender.
Add turmeric powder, pepper powder, chilli powder, and coriander powder.
Fry the spices for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 3:Add Coconut Milk and Vada

Pour in the thin coconut milk and simmer for about 3 minutes.
Add the vada pieces and garam masala.
Stir in the thick coconut milk and heat gently for 1–2 minutes without boiling.
Remove from heat and serve warm.