Varutharacha Thakkali Curry (Tomato Curry in Roasted Coconut Gravy)

INGREDIENTS

Tomatoes  -  3-4 nos
Shallots chopped  -  1/2 cup
Green chillies  -  2 nos
Turmeric powder  -  1/2 tsp
Cumin powder  -  1/2 tsp
Curry leaves  -  1 sprig
Mustard seeds  -  1/4 tsp
Oil  - 2 tbsp
Salt  -  as needed

TO ROAST AND GRIND

Grated coconut  -  1 cup
Garlic  -  2 cloves
Red chilly powder  - 1 tsp
Garam masala powder  -  1 tsp
Fennel seeds  -  1/2 tsp

Dry roast all the above ingredients and grind it to a smooth paste.


METHOD

Cook the tomatoes in a little water along with slit green chillies, turmeric powder and salt until the tomatoes are mashed.
Heat oil in a pan and splutter mustard seeds.
Add the chopped shallots and curry leaves and saute them till golden brown.
Then add the cooked tomatoes to this and add cumin powder.
Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes.
Pour the coconut paste along with 1-2 cups of water  and salt to taste.
Bring it to a boil in medium flame for about 5-10 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Serve hot with rice.