Kaya Stew (Mixed Vegetable Stew)

Kaya Stew (Mixed vegetable Stew) is a rich coconut based dish. Vegetables are cooked in coconut milk which gives this dish a very unique flavor. We used to eat this Kaya Stew along with Aapam in our favorite restaurant long time back when we used to live in Vizag. It makes my mouth water when ever I think of it even now. So,I made up my own version of Kaya Stew.





Ingredients:-
Cauliflower- 1 medium sized
Carrots- 1 large
Tomato- 2
Onion- 1
Coconut milk- 1 cup( I am using canned coconut milk which is quite thick and rich)
Green Chillies- 2
Ginger- garlic paste- 1 tsp
Chilli powder- 1 1/2 tsp
Salt- to taste
Cilantro- for garnishing

For Tadka( Seasoning)
Oil-2 tbsp
Cumin seeds- 1/4 tsp
Mustard seeds- 1/4 tsp
Turmeric- 1 pinch
Curry leaves- 1 spring


Procedure:-
To a heated pan add oil, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric and wait until they start spluttering. Now add Curry leaves and add chopped onion,green chillies. Let the onion turn translucent and ginger-garlic paste. Let it cook for a couple of minutes and then add Chopped Cauliflower, long strips of Carrot and let them cook for a minute. Now add tomato pieces and cook for one more minute. Add one cup of water to the veggies now. Add chilli powder and salt to the veggies now add let the veggies cook in the water partially covered until three-fourths done. At this point add the coconut milk to the veggies and let them cook until done. Also look for enough gravy. Don't let all the milk dry up. If dried up, add some more coconut milk or water. Garnish with chopped Coriander leaves and serve.

Tip:- Because of the fat content of coconut milk I sometimes substitute coconut milk with 2% milk. But coconut milk gives unique flavor to the dish. I use canned coconut milk because it is convenient for me. If you are interested in making your own coconut milk make sure it is really rich.

Kaya Stew can be served with Aapam or Dosa or Roti or Rice.