Kerala-Style Soya Roast Recipe

Soya roast is a delicious and protein-rich dish that draws its flavors from the traditional spices of Kerala. This Kerala-style soya roast is perfect for those who love spicy and aromatic dishes. Soya chunks, or meal makers, are roasted with a blend of spices to create a delectable dish that can be enjoyed with rice, roti, or as a standalone snack. Here’s how you can make this tasty dish at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup soya chunks (meal makers)
• 2 onions, finely sliced
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• A few curry leaves
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Soya Chunks:

1. Boil Soya Chunks:

• In a large bowl, bring water to a boil.
• Add the soya chunks and let them boil for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and expand in size.
• Drain the water and rinse the soya chunks in cold water to remove any residual smell.
• Squeeze out the excess water from the soya chunks and set them aside.

2. Preparing the Masala Base:

2. Heat Coconut Oil:

• In a pan, heat coconut oil over medium flame.
• Add fennel seeds and allow them to splutter.
• Add curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds until they release their aroma.

2. Add Onions:

• Add finely sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

2. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste:

• Add ginger-garlic paste and slit green chili. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell of ginger and garlic disappears.

2. Add Tomatoes:

• Add finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

3. Cooking the Soya Chunks:

6. Add Spices:

• Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

6. Add Soya Chunks:

• Add the prepared soya chunks to the masala and mix well to coat the chunks evenly with the spices.

6. Cook Until Crisp:

• Continue to sauté the soya chunks on medium heat for 10-15 minutes until they turn crispy and absorb the flavors of the masala.

4. Final Touch:

9. Add Garam Masala:

• Add garam masala and give it a final mix.

9. Garnish:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
10. Serve:
    • Serve the Kerala-style soya roast hot with rice, roti, or as a standalone snack.

Tips for Perfect Kerala-Style Soya Roast:

• Boiling Soya Chunks: Ensure that the soya chunks are boiled properly to remove any raw smell and to soften them.
• Rinsing and Squeezing: Rinsing the boiled soya chunks in cold water and squeezing out the excess water helps in better absorption of flavors.
• Using Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds a traditional Kerala flavor to the dish, enhancing its taste.
• Cooking on Medium Heat: Sauté the soya chunks on medium heat to ensure they get a nice crispy texture without burning.

This Kerala-style soya roast is a perfect blend of spices and textures, making it an irresistible dish. Whether you are a fan of Kerala cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfying crunch of this delightful soya roast!