Introduction

 

Hi, I’m Ajay Chopra, and today, I’m excited to share a recipe close to my heart—Tomato Thokku. I first tasted this tangy, spicy condiment on a trip to Tamil Nadu, where I learned it pairs perfectly with plain steamed rice, idlis, or even dosas. The simplicity of the ingredients, yet the complexity of the flavors, truly made it unforgettable. Since then, I’ve enjoyed experimenting with different variations and techniques to perfect this dish.

 

Tomato Thokku is versatile, deeply flavorful, and a staple across South India. Each region has its own unique take—some chop the tomatoes coarsely, some grind them finely, while others prefer it chunky. Today, I’ll walk you through the version I love most, with sautéed tomatoes and tamarind paste, enhanced with a delicious sesame oil tempering. This Tomato Thokku will transport you to the heart of South Indian cuisine!

 

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Instructions for Tomato Thokku

 

Step 1: Cook Tomatoes and Tamarind

• Heat Oil: In a pan, heat 1 tbsp of sesame oil.
• Add Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes and cook until softened.
• Integrate Tamarind: Add soaked tamarind to the tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens.
• Cool and Grind: Let the mixture cool and grind into a fine paste. Set aside.

 

Step 2: Prepare Tempering

• Heat Oil: In the same pan, add 2 tbsp of sesame oil.
• Add Spices: Add mustard seeds and let them crackle, then add curry leaves, chopped garlic, and dry red chilies. Sauté until garlic is golden.

 

 

Step 3: Combine Paste with Tempering

• Add Paste: Add the ground tomato-tamarind paste to the pan.
• Cook Mixture: Stir to combine and cook on medium heat.

 

Step 4: Add Spices and Seasoning

• Add Spices: Add red chili powder, salt, methi seeds powder, and hing.
• Simmer: Cook on low heat until the oil separates and flavors infuse.

 

Step 5: Add Jaggery and Finish

• Add Jaggery: Stir in the jaggery to balance the tanginess.
• Final Cook: Let it cook until well combined. Remove from heat.

 

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Instructions for Curd Rice

 

Step 1: Prepare Rice Mixture

• Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, curd, salt, black pepper, coriander, and green chili.

 

Step 2: Prepare Tempering for Curd Rice

• Heat Oil: In a small pan, heat oil.
• Add Tempering Spices: Add mustard seeds, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant.
• Combine: Pour the tempering over the rice mixture and mix.

 

Step 3: Serve

• Plating: Serve Tomato Thokku as a side with Curd Rice for a balanced, flavorful meal.

 

 

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About the Recipe

 

Tomato Thokku is a traditional South Indian tomato pickle, balancing the tanginess of tamarind with the rich warmth of sesame oil. Each bite delivers a medley of flavors: the spicy kick from red chili powder, a hint of sweetness from jaggery, and a lovely, slightly bitter undertone from fenugreek. This Thokku is more than a condiment—it’s an integral part of meals in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Telangana. It’s truly a taste of South India’s culinary diversity.

 

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Cooking Tips

 

• Texture Preference: Some regions prefer Tomato Thokku to be coarsely mashed, while others enjoy a finer texture. You can adjust the grinding step to match your preference.
• Tamarind Intensity: Adjust the amount of tamarind paste for more or less tanginess. If it’s too tangy, add a bit more jaggery to balance the flavors.
• Oil for Tempering: While sesame oil is preferred for its rich flavor, you can substitute it with coconut oil or any other cooking oil if needed. Each oil adds a unique touch to the dish.

 

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Pairing Guide

 

Tomato Thokku pairs excellently with simple, comforting dishes like plain steamed rice or curd rice, making it a fantastic addition to a traditional South Indian meal. It also goes well with dosas, idlis, and chapatis, adding a burst of tangy, spicy flavor. For a complete meal, serve it with chilled buttermilk or coconut water on the side.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. What is Tomato Thokku?

   • Tomato Thokku is a South Indian-style tomato pickle made with sautéed tomatoes, tamarind, and a flavorful tempering of sesame oil, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and spices.

2. Can I make Tomato Thokku without tamarind?

   • Yes, you can make it without tamarind, though tamarind adds a unique tanginess. Substitute with a small amount of lemon juice or skip it entirely for a milder taste.

3. How long can I store Tomato Thokku?

   • It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavor deepens as it sits, making it even tastier over time.

4. What is the best oil for making Tomato Thokku?

   • Sesame oil is traditional and adds a rich flavor, but you can also use coconut oil or sunflower oil as alternatives.

5. Can I freeze Tomato Thokku?

   • Yes, Tomato Thokku freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, thaw before serving.

6. Is Tomato Thokku very spicy?

   • The spiciness can be adjusted. Red chili powder adds heat, so feel free to add more or less based on your preference.

7. Can I skip the tempering step?

   • The tempering is key to the flavor of Tomato Thokku, as it infuses the dish with the aroma of mustard seeds and curry leaves. However, you could skip it if you’re in a rush.

8. How can I make Tomato Thokku less tangy?

   • Reduce the amount of tamarind paste or add a bit of jaggery to balance the tanginess.

9. What else can I pair with Tomato Thokku?

   • It pairs well with plain rice, curd rice, dosa, idli, chapati, or even as a spread on bread.

10. Can I use fresh red chilies instead of red chili powder?

    • Yes, fresh red chilies can be used for a different flavor profile. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.

 

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