Kumro Bhaja
Crispy, golden slices of pumpkin lightly spiced and pan-fried to perfection. A beloved Bengali side dish where the natural sweetness of the pumpkin meets the warmth of turmeric, chili, and mustard oil, creating a simple yet irresistible vegetable fry that pairs beautifully with steamed rice and dal.
For 4 servings
- prep
Prep the pumpkin slices.
1.Peel the pumpkin and cut into thin half-moon slices, about 0.5 cm thick.2.Pat the slices completely dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.3.In a small bowl, mix turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and sugar together.TIPDry slices ensure a crispy exterior. Any moisture left on the pumpkin will make it steam rather than fry. - prep
Season and dust the pumpkin.
1.Sprinkle the spice-salt-sugar mixture evenly over the pumpkin slices.2.Toss gently with your hands so every slice gets a light, even coating.3.Sprinkle rice flour over the seasoned slices and toss once more to create a thin, dusty crust.TIPThe rice flour is the secret to the crispy edges. Don't skip it, but keep the coating very light — just a dusting. - fry · ~10 min
Fry the pumpkin slices.
1.Heat mustard oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or tawa over medium heat until it reaches its smoking point, then cool slightly.2.Add nigella seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.3.Arrange the pumpkin slices in a single layer — do not crowd the pan.4.Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the underside is golden and crisp.5.Flip each slice carefully and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown.TIPMustard oil must be smoked to remove its raw pungency — wait till it's nearly fuming, then lower the heat before adding seeds. - serve
Serve hot alongside steamed rice and dal.
Transfer the fried pumpkin slices to a serving plate. Kumro Bhaja is best enjoyed immediately while the edges are still crisp and the inside is tender and sweet.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always pat the pumpkin slices bone-dry before seasoning to avoid steaming.
- 2Dust with rice flour very lightly — a thick coating turns gummy instead of crisp.
- 3Smoke the mustard oil until it just starts to fume, then let it cool slightly before adding nigella seeds.
- 4Arrange slices in a single layer in the pan and never flip before the first side is fully golden.
- 5Kumro Bhaja loses crispness quickly, so fry just before serving and eat immediately.
- 6For even cooking, slice all pumpkin pieces to a uniform 0.5 cm thickness.
- 7Leftover fried slices can be reheated in a dry skillet on low heat to regain crunch.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-oil
Use an air fryer at 180°C for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway. Spray a little mustard oil for flavour. Perfect for those watching their fat intake.
VeganVegan
This recipe is already vegan. Just ensure the sugar used is vegan-friendly (unbleached or organic).
Gluten freeGluten-free
Naturally gluten-free as written — the rice flour coating is a perfect alternative to wheat flour for those with gluten sensitivity.
Spicy twistSpicy twist
Add 1/4 tsp of ground black pepper or a pinch of cayenne along with the red chili powder. This dials up the heat without altering the delicate pumpkin sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Pumpkin is packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, supporting vision and immune health.
Low-Calorie Side Dish
With only a light dusting of rice flour and pan-frying in minimal oil, Kumro Bhaja offers a satisfying crunch without heavy calories.
Contains Antioxidants
Turmeric and mustard oil both provide anti-inflammatory compounds that help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Pumpkin flesh contributes natural fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, butternut squash or red kuri squash work well. Avoid watery varieties like zucchini, which won't crisp properly.
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