Pineapple in a thoran? Try this Onam special

Pineapple in a thoran? Yes, and this sweet and mildly spicy Kerala-style side makes a delicious addition to an Onam sadya. The natural sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with coconut, cumin, turmeric and green chillies.

Ingredients

1. 1 pineapple, chopped into small pieces
2. 1 cup grated coconut
3. 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
4. 1/4 tsp cumin seeds
5. 1/4 tsp mustard seeds
6. 2 sprigs curry leaves
7. 5 shallots, sliced
8. 3 green chillies, slit
9. Oil
10. Salt to taste

Preparation

1. Chop the pineapple into small pieces and set aside.
2. Add grated coconut, turmeric powder and cumin seeds to a mixer. Grind into a coarse paste.
3. Heat oil in a pan and splutter the mustard seeds.
4. Add curry leaves, sliced shallots and slit green chillies. Sauté until the shallots soften.
5. Add the coconut paste and salt to taste. Mix well.
6. Add the chopped pineapple and mix everything together.
7. Cook for about two minutes. Avoid overcooking the pineapple so it retains some texture.
8. Serve pineapple thoran with hot rice as part of your Onam sadya.

This quick thoran brings a lovely balance of sweet pineapple, coconut and mild spice to the sadya spread.