Suran ki Subzi / Yam Curry

Elephant foot yam cooked in spicy marinade, without a sauce.

Suran/Yam/Jimikand/Elephant foot yam - is an edible tube, but is different from sweet potato, though people  often confuse between the two. It is high on carbs and is a very good source of potassium, proteins, vitamins,fiber and antioxidants. Very high in omega 3 fatty acids, it has a cooling effect on the body and has anti coagulating properties which prevent the blood from clotting, and it increases estrogen levels in women.
As it is easily available throughout the year and is very reasonably priced, it's a good idea to include it in our regular diet.

INGREDIENTS-
Serves - 5 

• Suran (yam)-500 gms
• Fresh coriander-2 tbsp
• Yoghurt-2 tbsp
• Turmeric-3/4 tsp
• Chili powder-1 tsp
• Coriander powder-1 tsp
• Mango powder-1tsp
• Garam masala-1/3 tsp
• Salt-1 tsp

Tempering-

• Cooking oil or ghee -4 tbsp
• Cumin seeds-1 tsp
• Carom seeds(ajwain)-1/4 tsp
• Asafoetida-1/4 tsp
• Clove powder-a pinch of

PROCEDURE-

1. To clean and chop yam - Before you start working - apply oil on your hands and then scrub the yam under running water and then make big slices or strips. Then peel the yam skin carefuly with a strong and sharp knife. Don't forget to grease your hands otherwise they may get itchy due to the yam's skin.
2. Cut into big pieces, and wash them thoroughly. Boil till done, or pressure cook with 2 glasses of water for 2 whistles on medium heat.
3. Drain and keep aside, when cooled completely chop and make medium size pieces.
4. Heat oil or ghee in a pan and add cumin and carom seeds. When the seeds turn golden in color then add asafoetida and clove powder.
5. Add turmeric and add the boiled yam pieces.
6. Stir and then add all the dry spices, mix and then add whipped yoghrt. Mix gently.
7. Let it cook on slow heat for about 5 minutes - stir 2,3 times in between.
8. Add chopped fresh coriander and serve .

Serving suggestions-serve with any Indian bread or as a side dish.