Yam Recipe- Authentic Indian Suran Curry with Tamarind & Goda Masala

Last Updated on 3 months by Neha Deshmukh

Yam Recipe- Authentic Indian Suran Curry with Tamarind & Goda Masala

Introduction

There’s just something so comforting about a warm, flavorful curry on a cozy evening, isn’t there? Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s been a family favorite for generations – Suran Curry, or Yam Curry. It’s a dish that beautifully balances sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, and it’s packed with goodness. I first made this on my own after my grandmother showed me, and honestly, it wasn’t quite right the first time! But with a little practice, it became a staple. Let’s dive in and I’ll show you how to make this delicious and authentic Indian yam curry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Suran Curry isn’t just tasty; it’s also wonderfully satisfying. It’s a relatively easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal, but special enough to impress guests. Plus, yam (or suran) is incredibly nutritious! It’s a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful curry:

• 0.5 kilogram Yam (Suran)
• 1 tablespoon Tamarind Pulp
• 1 teaspoon Oil
• 0.25 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
• 0.25 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• 1 pinch Asafoetida (Hing)
• 1 tablespoon Fresh scraped coconut
• 1 tablespoon Chopped coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon Green Chilly Paste
• 1-2 teaspoon Crushed Jaggery
• 1 teaspoon Goda Masala
• Salt (to taste)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients to ensure your curry turns out perfectly:

Yam (Suran) – Varieties & Selection
There are different varieties of yam available. Look for firm, unblemished yams. They can be white, purple, or brown-skinned.

Tamarind Pulp – Fresh vs. Store-Bought
Fresh tamarind pulp offers the best flavor, but store-bought tamarind concentrate works well too. If using concentrate, start with less and add more to taste. About 1 tablespoon of pulp equates to roughly 2 tablespoons of concentrate.

Goda Masala – A Maharashtrian Specialty
Goda Masala is a unique blend of spices from Maharashtra. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to this curry. You can find it at Indian grocery stores or online.

Asafoetida (Hing) – Benefits & Usage
Asafoetida has a pungent smell in its raw form, but it mellows out beautifully when cooked, adding a savory umami flavor. It’s also known for its digestive benefits!

Oil – Choosing the Right Oil for Flavor
I prefer using mustard oil for an authentic flavor, but you can also use vegetable oil or sunflower oil.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, wash and cut the yam into ½-inch thick pieces. It’s important to submerge these in water immediately to prevent them from discoloring.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter – you’ll know they’re ready when they start to pop!
3. Add the turmeric powder, asafoetida, and green chili paste. Sauté for about 10 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Drain the yam pieces and add them to the pan. Gently stir to coat them with the spices.
5. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the yam start to soften.
6. Add enough water to submerge the yam pieces. Mix in the tamarind pulp, ensuring it dissolves well.
7. Cover the pan again and simmer until the yam is tender – this usually takes 15-20 minutes. Add more water if needed to prevent sticking.
8. Now for the magic! Stir in the crushed jaggery, salt, coconut, goda masala, and coriander. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Adjust the consistency of the gravy to your liking. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
10. Remove from heat and serve hot with roti or steamed rice.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this recipe even better:

Achieving the Right Yam Texture
You want the yam to be tender but not mushy. Test it with a fork – it should slide in easily.

Balancing Sweet, Sour & Spicy Flavors
Taste as you go! Adjust the jaggery, tamarind pulp, and green chili paste to achieve your preferred balance.

Preventing Yam Discoloration
Always keep the cut yam submerged in water until you’re ready to cook it.

Using Fresh vs. Dried Tamarind
If using dried tamarind, soak it in warm water for about 30 minutes, then extract the pulp.

Understanding Goda Masala’s Complexity
Goda Masala varies from brand to brand. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Adaptation
This recipe is naturally vegan!

Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Spice Level Adjustment (Mild, Medium, Hot)
Reduce or omit the green chili paste for a milder curry. Add more for a spicier kick.

Regional Variations – Konkani, Gujarati Influences
In Konkani cuisine, they sometimes add a touch of kokum. Gujarati versions might include a pinch of sugar.

Festival Adaptations – Ganesh Chaturthi Special
This curry is often made during Ganesh Chaturthi as yam is considered auspicious.

Serving Suggestions

This Suran Curry is incredibly versatile.

Roti & Curry Pairings
It pairs beautifully with whole wheat roti, paratha, or naan.

Rice & Curry Combinations
Steamed rice, especially basmati, is a classic accompaniment.

Side Dish Ideas – Papad, Raita
Serve with a side of papad and a cooling raita to complete the meal.

Complementary Vegetable Dishes
A simple spinach stir-fry or a side of beans would complement this curry nicely.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Later
You can freeze this curry for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

What is Suran and is it good for you?
Suran, or yam, is a root vegetable packed with fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. It’s great for digestion and overall health!

Can I use pre-made Goda Masala? Where can I find it?
Yes, absolutely! You can find pre-made Goda Masala at most Indian grocery stores or online retailers.

How do I know when the yam is cooked perfectly?
The yam should be tender and easily pierced with a fork, but still hold its shape.

Can I substitute tamarind pulp with lemon juice or vinegar?
While you can, it won’t be quite the same. Tamarind provides a unique sweet and sour flavor. If you must substitute, use 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or 2 tablespoons of vinegar, but be prepared for a different taste.

What if I don’t have asafoetida (hing)? Can I skip it?
You can skip it, but asafoetida adds a unique savory flavor. If you can find it, it’s worth adding!

How can I make this curry less spicy?
Reduce or omit the green chili paste. You can also add a little more jaggery to balance the heat.