Sukto: A Delightful Harmony of Flavors in Traditional Bengali Cuisine
IIE Digital Desk: Sukto is a beloved traditional Bengali dish that embodies the essence of Bengali cuisine with its unique blend of flavors and textures. This vegetarian delicacy is a medley of various vegetables, including bitter gourd, ridge gourd, raw banana, sweet potato, drumstick, and pumpkin, simmered in a delicate spice-infused gravy. Sukto is renowned for its distinct balance of flavors, combining the bitterness of some vegetables with the sweetness of others. This recipe showcases the authentic preparation method of Sukto, allowing you to savor the rich culinary heritage of Bengal.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized bitter gourd (karela), thinly sliced
- 1 medium-sized ridge gourd (jhinge), peeled and cut into thin strips
- 1 medium-sized raw banana, peeled and cut into thin strips
- 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cut into thin strips
- 1 small drumstick (shojne danta), cut into small pieces (optional)
- 1 cup pumpkin, peeled and cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (posto)
- 2 tablespoons grated coconut
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the mustard oil over medium heat.
2. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add the bitter gourd slices, ridge gourd, raw banana, sweet potato, and drumstick (if using) to the pan. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes.
4. Now, add the pumpkin strips and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, make a paste by mixing poppy seeds, grated coconut, and a little water. Set aside.
6. Add the turmeric powder, sugar, and salt to the pan, and mix well.
7. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
8. Add the poppy seed and coconut paste to the pan, and stir well to combine. Let it cook for another 2 minutes.
9. Check the seasoning and adjust according to taste.
10. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the Sukto to a serving dish.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
12. Serve hot with steamed rice or as a side dish with your favorite Bengali meal.
Sukto holds a special place in Bengali cuisine, representing the harmony of flavors that Bengalis cherish in their meals. The combination of tender vegetables, aromatic spices, and the subtle bitterness make it a unique culinary experience. Whether enjoyed with steamed rice or as a side dish, Sukto brings a wholesome and satisfying element to the dining table. So, immerse yourself in the flavors of Bengal and delight in this classic recipe of Sukto, an epitome of Bengali gastronomy.
