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Carrot Thoran

Serves 4
30 mins
184 Kcal
A quintessential Kerala side dish, this carrot thoran recipe takes humble grated carrots and turns them into a burst of flavor and color that'll jazz up any plate. Here's the vibe: grated carrots, freshly grated coconut, and a symphony of simple spices come together in a saut ed masterpiece that's as easy to make as it is to love. It's healthy, quick, and tastes like sunshine perfect for days when you need something light but packed with personality. Making carrot thoran is almost meditative. You start by heating up some oil and tossing in mustard seeds and curry leaves for that classic Kerala aroma. Add finely grated carrots and a touch of green chili for a gentle kick. A generous handful of fresh coconut, bringing creamy sweetness that balances the spices like a pro. A quick stir-fry later, and your thoran is ready to shine on your dining table. Serve carrot thoran with steamed rice and dal for a minimal presentation, or pair it up with a full Kerala spread-it has the capability of killing it in either end. Bonus: It happens to be vegan and gluten-free and the best method to get some greens sneaked into your dishes without sacrificing taste. So, if you're craving a fuss-free dish which is also flavor-packed, then basically a hug in a bowl, this carrot thoran recipe is out for you. Go on and give it a try.

Ingredients required for Carrot Thoran

  1. 2 carrot
  2. Salt
  3. 1 cup coconut grated
  4. 1 dry red chilli
  5. 2 garlic cloves
  6. 1 tsp cumin seeds
  7. 1 tbsp oil
  8. 1 tsp mustard seeds
  9. 1 tsp urad dal
  10. 1 spring curry leaves

Cooking steps for Carrot Thoran

  1. 1
    Let's talk about carrot thoran, the South Indian side dish that's a simple yet flavorful masterpiece.
  2. 2
    It's a vibrant, wholesome stir-fry of grated carrots and coconut that's as easy to make as it is delicious.
  3. 3
    Perfectly spiced and lightly tempered, this carrot thoran recipe is the kind of dish that effortlessly elevates your meal.
  4. 4
    Start by grating 2 large carrots and setting them aside.
  5. 5
    In a blender, grind 1 cup of grated coconut, 1 dry red chili, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds into a coarse mix without adding water—it's all about that dry, textured goodness.
  6. 6
    In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and toss in 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds.
  7. 7
    Let them pop like fireworks, then add 1 teaspoon of urad dal and a sprig of curry leaves for that iconic South Indian aroma.
  8. 8
    Once the tempering is fragrant, toss in the grated carrots, add a splash of water, and cook them just until tender.
  9. 9
    Stir in the ground coconut mixture and salt to taste, letting everything come together in a deliciously fragrant mix.
  10. 10
    Keep stirring until the coconut is lightly toasted and the carrots are perfectly cooked but still vibrant.
  11. 11
    Serve your carrot thoran warm with steamed rice and sambar or as a colorful side to any Indian meal.
  12. 12
    It's light, healthy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
  13. 13
    This recipe of carrot thoran is all about turning simple ingredients into something truly special.
  14. 14
    Whether you're a thoran newbie or a seasoned fan, this dish is a total winner that you'll want to make again and again!

Shop Ingredients

Garlic Cloves (2)
57
1
77
1
Salt
27
1
24
1
116
1
22
1
50
1
110
1
47
1
73
1
88
1
75
1
Urad Dal (1 Tsp)
152
1
85
1
96
1
217
1
93
1
85
1
139
1
109
1
138
1
125
1
Cumin Seeds (1 Tsp)
356
1
310
1
35
1
58
1
383
1
95
1
209
1
121
1
Mustard Seeds (1 Tsp)
17
1
34
1
25
1
32
1
31
1
25
1
19
1
50
1
22
1
57
1
Dry Red Chilli (1)
37
1
62
1
37
1
46
1
120
1
121
1
83
1
86
1
260
1
45
1
Oil (1 Tbsp)
178
1
148
1
150
1
160
1
155
1
767
1
187
1
309
1
408
1
267
1
Curry Leaves (1 spring)
10
1

FAQs

What makes Carrot Thoran so special?

Carrot Thoran is a simple yet iconic dish from Kerala, and its charm lies in its minimalism. It's a dry stir-fry made with grated carrots, fresh coconut, curry leaves, and a few key spices. Unlike many Indian dishes with heavy gravies, Thoran keeps it light and refreshing. The use of tempered mustard seeds and coconut gives it that authentic Keralite touch, making it stand out. It's proof that great flavors don't need a long list of ingredients!

Why is Carrot Thoran considered healthy?

Carrot Thoran is as nutritious as it is tasty. Carrots bring a natural sweetness and are loaded with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin A, which are great for eye health and digestion. Coconut adds healthy fats, while spices like turmeric and curry leaves are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Plus, it's stir-fried with minimal oil and skips the heavy stuff like cream or butter, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals.

How is Carrot Thoran served?

Traditionally, Carrot Thoran is served as a side dish with steamed rice and Kerala-style curries like sambar, rasam, or moru curry (spiced buttermilk). It fits perfectly into a South Indian meal spread. You can also jazz it up by adding green beans, cabbage, or beetroot for a colorful twist. If you like it spicy, throw in more green chilies or a sprinkle of red chili powder. For an extra crunch, a handful of roasted cashews makes a delightful garnish!
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