Guajje Gassi
Tender raw jackfruit simmered in a fragrant, tangy, and spicy coconut curry. This traditional Mangalorean dish, known as Gujje Gassi, is a coastal Karnataka specialty best enjoyed with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Cook the Jackfruit
- b.Apply a little oil to your hands and knife to prevent the jackfruit sap from sticking.
- c.Peel the green outer skin and chop the raw jackfruit into 1-inch cubes.
- d.In a pressure cooker, add the jackfruit cubes, 2 cups of water, 0.5 tsp of turmeric powder, and 0.5 tsp of salt.
- e.Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles until the jackfruit is tender but not mushy. Alternatively, boil in a pot for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and set the cooked jackfruit aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Roast Spices for Masala
- b.In a small pan over low heat, dry roast the Byadgi red chilies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly darker. Be careful not to burn them.
- c.Remove from heat and let the spices cool completely.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grind the Masala Paste
- b.In a blender jar, combine the cooled roasted spices, grated fresh coconut, tamarind paste, and the remaining 0.5 tsp of turmeric powder.
- c.Add about 0.5 cup of water and grind to a very smooth, fine paste. Add a little more water if needed to facilitate grinding.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Prepare the Curry Base
- b.Heat coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter completely.
- d.Add the curry leaves and finely chopped onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Cook Masala and Simmer the Gassi
- b.Add the ground masala paste to the pot. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raw smell disappears and oil begins to separate from the masala.
- c.Add the cooked jackfruit, the remaining 1 tsp of salt, and the jaggery powder. Gently mix to coat the jackfruit with the masala.
- d.Pour in 1.5 to 2 cups of water to achieve your desired gravy consistency. Stir well and bring the curry to a boil.
- e.Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve
- b.Check the seasoning and adjust salt if necessary. Let the curry rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- c.Serve Guajje Gassi hot with steamed rice, neer dosa, or sannas.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Oiling your hands and knife is crucial when cutting raw jackfruit to avoid its sticky sap.
- 2Canned raw jackfruit in brine can be used as a convenient alternative. Rinse it well before using.
- 3Roasting the spices on low heat is key to bringing out their aroma without burning them.
- 4For a richer flavor, you can lightly toast the grated coconut before grinding.
- 5The consistency of the gassi should be thick but pourable. Adjust water accordingly.
- 6Let the curry rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add a cup of cooked black-eyed peas (alasande) or chickpeas along with the jackfruit for extra protein and texture.
With GarlicWith Garlic
For a different flavor profile, add 2-3 cloves of garlic while grinding the masala paste.
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
You can substitute half the jackfruit with other vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or raw plantains.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For a richer, creamier gravy, stir in 1/4 cup of thick coconut milk at the end of the cooking process and heat through gently without boiling.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Raw jackfruit is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Source of Healthy Fats
The use of fresh coconut and coconut oil provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of healthy fat that can provide sustained energy and support metabolism.
Packed with Antioxidants
Spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin, along with the chilies, are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Supports Immunity
Jackfruit contains a good amount of Vitamin C and other essential nutrients that can help boost the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's quite healthy. It's rich in fiber from jackfruit, contains healthy fats from coconut, and gets anti-inflammatory benefits from spices like turmeric. It's also plant-based and naturally vegan and gluten-free.