Ingredients
Vegetables
- 270 g Butternut squash
- 95 g Raw mango
- 30 g Rocket leaves
- 1 Green chili
- 15 g Ginger
Spices
- 1 tsp Black mustard seeds
- 1 tsp Yellow mustard powder
- ½ tsp Asafoetida
- ½ tsp Turmeric powder
- 2 tsp Salt
Others
- 300 ml Water
- 2 tbsp Oil (estimated, not explicitly mentioned but needed for frying spices)
Instructions
- Prepare Rocket Leaves: Wash the rocket leaves thoroughly under cold water and set aside to drain while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Prepare Butternut Squash: Peel the butternut squash, cut it in half, remove the seeds, then cut each half into quarters and slice evenly into manageable pieces.
- Prepare Raw Mango: Peel the raw mango, remove the seed, and cut the flesh into baton-shaped pieces.
- Chop Ginger: Finely chop the ginger to release maximum flavor during cooking.
- Temper Spices: Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the asafoetida and black mustard seeds. When the seeds begin to pop, add yellow mustard powder, turmeric powder, and the whole green chili. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté Ginger and Mango: Add the chopped ginger to the pot and fry for about a minute to release aroma. Then add the raw mango pieces and sauté for another minute to soften slightly and blend flavors.
- Add Squash and Simmer: Add the sliced butternut squash to the pot, season with salt, and pour in the water. Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer gently until the squash is cooked through and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Finish with Rocket: Once the squash is tender, add the washed rocket leaves and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the rocket wilt but retain its vibrant color and fresh taste. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Serve the charchari hot as a side dish with steamed rice or flatbread for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the green chili quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- Using fresh mustard seeds and mustard powder is critical to getting the authentic pungent flavor.
- If butternut squash is unavailable, you can substitute with pumpkin or kabocha squash.
- Ensure the rocket leaves are fresh and tender for the best texture and flavor.
- This dish can be enjoyed as a light vegan meal or an accompaniment to a larger spread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Vegetable Curry
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Bengali / Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian