Chidambaram-Style Brinjal Gothsu (Katharikkai Gothsu) with Phoranmasala Spices

Chidambaram-style Brinjal Gothsu, known locally as Katharikkai Gothsu, is a beloved Tamil Nadu delicacy that perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and aromatic flavors. This traditional temple town recipe, enhanced with Phoranmasala's premium spices, brings authentic South Indian taste to your kitchen.

The Heritage of Chidambaram Gothsu

Originating from the sacred temple town of Chidambaram, this gothsu represents the essence of Tamil cuisine. Traditionally served with dosa, idli, or rice, this brinjal curry showcases the perfect harmony of vegetables and spices that South Indian cooking is famous for.

Essential Phoranmasala Spices for Authentic Katharikkai Gothsu

• Golden Turmeric (Haldi) Powder - For color, flavor, and health benefits
• Premium Black Mustard Seeds (Kali Rai) - Essential for traditional tempering
• Premium Fennel Seeds - For subtle sweetness and aroma
• Premium Green Cardamom - Adds aromatic depth
• Premium Cloves - For warmth and complexity

Phoranmasala's Authentic Chidambaram Brinjal Gothsu Recipe

Main Ingredients:

• 500g small brinjals (eggplant), cut into pieces
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp tamarind paste
• 2 tbsp jaggery or brown sugar
• 1 tsp Phoranmasala Turmeric Powder
• 2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 3 tbsp coconut oil
• Fresh curry leaves
• Fresh coriander for garnish

For the Tempering (Tadka):

• 1 tsp Phoranmasala Black Mustard Seeds
• 1/2 tsp Phoranmasala Fennel Seeds
• 2-3 Phoranmasala Green Cardamom pods
• 2 Phoranmasala Premium Cloves
• 1 tsp urad dal
• 1 tsp chana dal
• 2 dried red chilies
• 10-12 curry leaves
• 1 inch ginger, chopped
• 3-4 garlic cloves, chopped

Chidambaram-Style Cooking Method:

1. Prepare the Brinjal: Cut brinjals into medium pieces and soak in salted water to prevent browning. Drain before cooking.
2. Make the Tempering: Heat coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add fennel seeds, cardamom, cloves, urad dal, and chana dal. Fry until golden.
3. Add Aromatics: Add dried red chilies, curry leaves, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
4. Cook the Base: Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Add tomatoes and cook until they break down completely.
5. Add Spices: Add turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook for 2 minutes until the spices are well incorporated.
6. Cook the Brinjal: Add the brinjal pieces and mix well with the spice mixture. Cook covered for 10-12 minutes until brinjals are tender.
7. Add Tangy Elements: Add tamarind paste and jaggery. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes until the flavors meld together.
8. Final Seasoning: Adjust salt, add fresh curry leaves, and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander.

The Chidambaram Touch

What makes this gothsu special is the perfect balance of tangy tamarind, sweet jaggery, and aromatic spices. Our Premium Black Mustard Seeds and Fennel Seeds create the authentic tempering that gives this dish its distinctive Chidambaram flavor.

Serving Chidambaram Brinjal Gothsu

• With Dosa: Perfect accompaniment to crispy dosas
• With Idli: Traditional pairing with soft idlis
• With Rice: Serve as a side dish with steamed rice
• With Chapati: Great with Indian flatbreads

Pro Tips for Perfect Gothsu

• Choose Right Brinjals: Use small, tender brinjals for best results
• Fresh Spices: Phoranmasala's fresh ground spices ensure authentic flavor
• Balance is Key: Adjust tamarind and jaggery for perfect sweet-sour balance
• Coconut Oil: Essential for authentic South Indian taste
• Curry Leaves: Fresh curry leaves make all the difference

Variations with Phoranmasala Spices

Mixed Vegetable Gothsu

Add okra, drumsticks, or pumpkin along with brinjal using the same turmeric and spice blend.

Gothsu with Panch Phoran

Try our Premium Panch Phoran combo for a Bengali twist to this South Indian classic.

Spicy Gothsu

Increase the red chili powder and add extra mustard seeds for a spicier version.

Health Benefits

• Brinjal: Rich in fiber and antioxidants
• Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory properties
• Mustard Seeds: Good for digestion
• Tamarind: Rich in vitamins and aids digestion

Why Choose Phoranmasala for South Indian Cooking

• Authentic Flavors: Our spices capture the true essence of South Indian cuisine
• Premium Quality: Sourced from the finest farms for maximum freshness
• Traditional Processing: Ground fresh to preserve natural oils and flavors
• Consistent Results: Every batch delivers the same exceptional taste

Complete South Indian Spice Collection:

• Golden Turmeric Powder
• Premium Black Mustard Seeds
• Premium Fennel Seeds
• Premium Green Cardamom
• Premium Cloves
• Premium Panch Phoran Combo

Taste Authentic Chidambaram: Shop our South Indian spice collection and bring the sacred flavors of temple town cooking to your home!

With Phoranmasala spices, every meal becomes a celebration of authentic South Indian heritage.