Yam Fry – Home Style

Step 1: Prepare the Yam

Wash the yam thoroughly to remove any mud. Peel the outer layer and chop the yam into small, uniform pieces. Rinse the chopped yam two to three times to ensure it's completely clean.

Step 2: Temper the Spices

Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a kadai. Add mustard seeds and urad dal. Once the mustard seeds splutter, add 2-3 dry red chilies, a pinch of hing (asafoetida), and a few curry leaves. Stir until the urad dal turns golden brown.

Step 3: Cook the Yam

Add the chopped yam pieces to the kadai. Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder and salt to taste. Pour in 1/2 cup of water.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the kadai with a lid and cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until the yam is tender and most of the water has been absorbed.

Step 5: Finish the Fry

Remove the lid and stir the yam for another half a minute to ensure all remaining water evaporates and the yam is perfectly dry.

Step 6: Add Coconut

Finally, add 1/4 cup of fresh grated coconut to the cooked yam and mix well.

Step 7: Serve

Your healthy and tasty home-style yam stir fry (Senai Poriyal) is ready to be served as a side dish.

• If you experience itching or rashes when handling raw yam, especially with water, wear gloves or ask someone else to chop and rinse it. Eating the cooked yam should not cause issues.

• Yam is believed to be very good for health, beneficial for the heart and stomach, and can be included in your diet regularly.

• This vegetable can also be prepared as a kootu (gravy-like dish).

• For special occasions, yam can be deep-fried for a richer taste.