Aatu Kari Kuzhambu (spicy Chettinad Mutton Curry)

Aatu Kari Kuzhambu, also known as Spicy Chettinad Mutton Curry, is a traditional and flavorful dish from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, India. This spicy and aromatic curry is made with tender mutton pieces cooked in a rich blend of South Indian spices, making it a perfect accompaniment to steamed rice or dosa.

Non Vegetarian Main Course Chettinad Chettinad Cuisine Mutton Curry Spicy South Indian
Aatu Kari Kuzhambu (spicy Chettinad Mutton Curry)

Ingredients

  • 500g mutton, cut into pieces
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1/4 cup grated coconut
  • 10-12 dry red chilies
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppercorns
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 sprig curry leaves
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat a pan and dry roast the dry red chilies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and peppercorns until fragrant. Allow it to cool and grind into a fine paste along with grated coconut.
  2. Heat oil in a large pot or pressure cooker. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Now, add the mutton pieces and cook until they are well browned.
  5. Pour in the tomato puree, ground spice paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
  6. Add enough water to cover the mutton pieces and bring it to a boil. If using a pressure cooker, cover and cook for about 4-5 whistles or until the mutton is tender. If using a pot, cover and simmer for about 45-50 minutes or until the mutton is cooked through.
  7. Garnish with curry leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or dosa.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
10g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot or pressure cooker Pan Grinder or blender

Tools

Knife Cutting board Spatula Measuring spoons

Serving suggestions

Serving Suggestions: Aatu Kari Kuzhambu pairs well with steamed rice, dosa, or idli.

Tips & tricks

Tips: Adjust the quantity of red chilies based on your spice preference. You can also add a teaspoon of poppy seeds for a richer gravy.

Cost

$20