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Tinda sabzi, spicy tinda Indian style, served with rich spices and fresh coriander
Tender Indian apple gourd cooked in a rich, aromatic spiced onion base.

Spiced tinda masala

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Vegetarian & Vegan Main Courses
Tinda (also known as Indian apple gourd) is a small, tender squash variety loved in North Indian cuisine. 'Sabzi' means vegetable dish. The soul of this dish is the 'tadka', i.e. popping spices in oil, which gives a deep, roasted aroma. A light, vegetarian dish traditionally scooped up with flatbread.
🕒 Prep Time 10 mins
🍳 Cook Time 20 mins
⌛ Total Time 30 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 180 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Indian

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Frying pan with lid: For steaming.

Instructions

1 ✓

Peel and cube the tinda. Heat the oil and sprinkle in the whole cumin seeds. Wait until they start to pop.

Tip: Essential oils of spices are released in hot oil. If not sizzling, oil is too cold; if smoking, it's burnt.
2 ✓

Add the onion and fry until golden brown. Then stir in garlic and ginger, fry for another 1 minute.

Tip: Caramelisation of the onion gives the dish its sweet base flavour and thickness.
3 ✓

Sprinkle in powdered spices (turmeric, coriander, chilli) and a splash of water.

Tip: Water prevents delicate powdered spices from burning in hot oil before releasing their flavour.
4 ✓

Toss in tinda cubes, add salt. Cover and steam over low heat for 15 minutes until tender. Add water if needed.

Tip: Salt draws water out of the gourd, so it steams in its own juice (Osmosis).
5 ✓

Finally sprinkle with Garam Masala and fresh coriander. Serve warm.

Tip: Always add Garam Masala at the end to preserve its volatile aromas.

Recipe FAQ

I can't get Tinda, what should I use?
Tender courgette or pattypan squash are perfect substitutes as their water content and structure are similar.

Ingredients

  • 500 g Tinda (Indian gourd), or baby marrow/courgette
  • 1 pc Red onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
  • 1 tsp Grated ginger
  • 1 tsp Cumin seeds (whole)
  • 0.5 tsp Turmeric
  • 1 tsp Coriander powder
  • 0.5 tsp Chilli powder
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala
  • 2 tbsp Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tbsp Fresh coriander (for garnish)