Ulli Theeyal / Shallots in Roasted Coconut Sauce

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Gayatri (@rene121)

Discover the authentic flavors of Kerala with Ulli Theeyal, a traditional shallot-based curry made with roasted coconut. This flavorful dish features shallots simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce, creating a delightful culinary experience. The roasting process brings out the nutty and earthy notes of the coconut, perfectly complementing the sweetness...

Ulli Theeyal / Shallots in Roasted Coconut Sauce recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min

Ingredients

3 Servings
(1 serving = Approximately 1 cup)
  • Shallots
    Shallots
    3/4cup
  • Tamarind (small gooseberry sized)
    Tamarind (small gooseberry sized)
  • Turmeric powder
    Turmeric powder
    1/4tsp
  • Coconut oil
    Coconut oil
    1tbsp
  • Dried red chilli
    Dried red chilli
    2
  • Mustard seeds
    Mustard seeds
    1/2tsp
  • Curry leaves
    Curry leaves
    1sprig
  • Salt to taste
    Salt to taste

For roasting coconut

  • Grated coconut
    Grated coconut
    3/4cup
  • Shallots
    Shallots
    2
  • Chilli powder
    Chilli powder
    1 1/2tsp
  • Coriander powder
    Coriander powder
    2tsp
  • Coconut oil
    Coconut oil
    2tsp
  • Curry leaves
    Curry leaves
    1sprig

How to make Ulli Theeyal / Shallots in Roasted Coconut Sauce

Roasting the Coconut

  1. Step 1

    Heat a pan and add grated coconut along with 2 sliced shallots.

  2. Step 2

    Dry roast for 1 minute over medium flame.

  3. Step 3

    Add coconut oil and again roast until the mixture turns dark golden brown over medium-low heat.

    Step 1.1: Add coconut oil and again roast until the mixture turns dark golden brown over medium-low heat
  4. Step 4

    Turn off the flame and add curry leaves, chili powder, and coriander powder.

  5. Step 5

    Mix well and let cool completely.

    Step 1.1: Mix well and let cool completely

Preparing the Base

  1. Step 1

    Transfer the cooled roasted coconut mix to a mixer jar.

  2. Step 2

    Grind into a fine paste without adding water because the oil comes out from the roasted coconut to form a paste, then set aside.

    Step 2.1: Grind into a fine paste without adding water because the oil comes out from the roasted coconut to form a paste, then set aside
    Step 2.2: Grind into a fine paste without adding water because the oil comes out from the roasted coconut to form a paste, then set aside
  3. Step 3

    Peel the remaining shallots and cut them into big pieces. Set aside.

    Step 2.1: Peel the remaining shallots and cut them into big pieces
  4. Step 4

    Mix tamarind with a little water, mix with your hands, and then strain to create tamarind paste. Set aside.

Cooking the Theeyal

  1. Step 1

    Heat coconut oil in a kadai or earthen pot. Once hot, add mustard seeds and wait for them to pop.

  2. Step 2

    Add dried red chilies and curry leaves.

  3. Step 3

    Add the cleaned shallots and sauté for 1 minute.

  4. Step 4

    Add tamarind paste, salt, turmeric, and 1/2 cup of water.

  5. Step 5

    Let it boil for 3 minutes.

  6. Step 6

    Add the roasted coconut paste and enough water to achieve the desired consistency.

  7. Step 7

    Boil for 5 minutes over medium to high flame.

  8. Step 8

    Turn off the flame. Tasty Ulli Theeyal is ready to serve.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

156.7kcal (7.84%)

Protein

3.2g (6.42%)

Carbs

7.1g (2.58%)

Sugars

2.5g (4.94%)

Healthy Fat

1.4g

Unhealthy Fat

12.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

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Tips & Tricks

  1. Roasting the coconut properly is crucial for the flavor of the theeyal. Ensure it reaches a dark golden brown color for the best taste.

  2. Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.

  3. For an authentic taste, use coconut oil and an earthen pot (kadai) for cooking.

FAQS

  1. What is Ulli Theeyal?

    Ulli Theeyal is a traditional Kerala curry made with shallots (small onions) cooked in a roasted coconut sauce. It is known for its rich, flavorful taste derived from the roasted coconut and spices.

  2. Can I use regular onions instead of shallots?

    While shallots are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with regular onions if needed. However, shallots provide a sweeter and milder flavor that is characteristic of Ulli Theeyal.

  3. How do I store Ulli Theeyal?

    Store leftover Ulli Theeyal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

  4. What do I serve Ulli Theeyal with?

    Ulli Theeyal is best served with steamed rice. It can also be enjoyed with appam or roti for a satisfying meal.

  5. Can I make this recipe vegan?

    Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients like shallots, coconut, and spices.

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rene121's profile picture

Gayatri

(@rene121)

Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. ...

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