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Beetroot, a vibrant and nutrient-packed root vegetable, holds a special place in Tamil kitchens. Its natural sweetness and earthy undertones make it an excellent ingredient for various dishes. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, beetroot is known for its health benefits, such as improving blood circulation and boosting immunity—both essential during winter. Tamil cuisine, with its diverse use of spices and traditional cooking techniques, enhances the natural flavour of beetroot to create wholesome and delicious dishes.
From hearty curries to innovative breakfast options, beetroot can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary. If you're looking to incorporate this colourful vegetable into your winter dinner, here are some delightful Tamil-style beetroot dishes to try.
Beetroot Sambar
Sambar, a staple in Tamil households, takes on a delightful twist with the addition of beetroot. This tangy and spicy lentil-based dish is made with toor dal (pigeon peas), tamarind, and a blend of aromatic spices. The inclusion of beetroot not only enhances the sambar's flavour but also imparts a stunning pink hue to the dish. The beetroot’s natural sweetness balances the tanginess of tamarind and the heat from the sambar powder. Serve this vibrant beetroot sambar with steamed rice or idlis for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Beetroot Pachadi
Pachadi, a yoghurt-based side dish, is a refreshing complement to a hearty Tamil meal. Beetroot pachadi is prepared by grating beetroot and cooking it with green chillies, mustard seeds, and a hint of ginger. The cooked beetroot is then mixed with creamy yoghurt, creating a dish that is mildly spiced and tangy. The yoghurt’s cooling properties make it an excellent addition to balance spicy dishes in your winter dinner spread. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added flavour and serve it alongside rice or chapati.
Image Credits: Freepik
Beetroot Kulambu
Kulambu is a thick and flavourful curry that pairs perfectly with steamed rice. Beetroot kulambu is prepared using tamarind pulp, coconut paste, and a medley of spices. The beetroot slices are cooked until tender, absorbing the tangy and spicy flavours of the kulambu. The coconut paste adds a rich and creamy texture, making the dish indulgent yet wholesome. The vibrant colour and robust flavours of beetroot kulambu make it an excellent centrepiece for a Tamil-style winter dinner.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Beetroot Dosa
For a unique and colourful twist on the classic dosa, try beetroot dosa. This dish combines the goodness of beetroot with the crispy texture of traditional rice and lentil crepes. The beetroot is boiled, pureed, and added to the dosa batter, giving it a striking pink hue and a subtle sweetness. Beetroot dosa is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Pair it with coconut or spicy tomato chutney for a delightful breakfast or dinner option.
Beetroot Idli
Idli, a popular South Indian steamed rice cake, gets a healthy makeover with beetroot. Beetroot idli is made by mixing finely grated beetroot into the traditional idli batter. The result is a soft, fluffy idli with a vibrant colour and a hint of earthy sweetness. Thanks to their appealing look and taste, these idlis are a hit among kids and adults alike. Serve beetroot idlis with sambar and coconut chutney for a complete Tamil-style meal.
Image Credits: Freepik
Beetroot Poriyal
Poriyal is a simple and flavourful stir-fry dish that is a staple in Tamil cuisine. Beetroot poriyal is prepared by sautéing finely chopped or grated beetroot with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chillies. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated coconut adds texture and enhances the flavour. This dish is quick to prepare and retains the natural sweetness of beetroot, making it a perfect side dish for rice and dal. Beetroot poriyal is light, nutritious, and ideal for a winter dinner.
