Wattakka Curry (sri Lankan Pumpkin Curry)

Wattakka Curry, also known as Sri Lankan Pumpkin Curry, is a delicious and aromatic dish that is a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine. This creamy and flavorful curry is made with tender pumpkin pieces cooked in a rich coconut milk-based sauce, infused with traditional Sri Lankan spices.

Vegan Gluten Free Main Course Sri Lankan Sri Lankan Cuisine Pumpkin Curry Vegetarian Coconut Milk
Wattakka Curry (sri Lankan Pumpkin Curry)

Ingredients

  • 500g pumpkin, peeled and cubed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, sliced
  • 1 sprig curry leaves
  • 1-inch piece pandan leaf (optional)
  • 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1-inch piece cinnamon stick
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 2-3 cardamom pods
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions

  1. Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add onions, green chilies, curry leaves, and pandan leaf. Sauté until onions are translucent.
  4. Add turmeric powder and chili powder. Stir well.
  5. Add pumpkin pieces and mix until coated with the spices.
  6. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  8. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot with rice or roti.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
180 per serving
Carbohydrates
15g
Protein
3g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large Pan Spatula Cutting Board Knife

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Wattakka Curry with steamed rice and a side of sambal for a complete Sri Lankan meal.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can roast the pumpkin pieces before adding them to the curry.

Cost

$8