When the Goan rains come pouring down, few things warm the soul like a bowl of hot rice served with Teryachi Bhaji, a traditional Goan curry made with colocasia (taro) leaves. Known locally as Aluchi Bhaji, this dish is simple, seasonal, and full of earthy, tangy flavors that celebrate the bounty of monsoon.
What Is Teryachi Bhaji?
Teryo or Terya refers to colocasia leaves, which flourish during Goa’s monsoon season. These broad green leaves are packed with nutrition but need proper cooking to avoid any itchiness. In this classic dish, they are combined with coconut, tamarind, and a blend of spices to create a hearty vegetarian curry that’s often eaten with ukde rice (Goan red rice) or chapati.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 15–20 medium colocasia leaves (alu/teryache paan)
- ½ cup fresh grated coconut
- 1–2 dry red chilies
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp tamarind pulp
- 1 tsp jaggery (optional, for balance)
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 4–5 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
- 1 tbsp oil (preferably coconut oil)
- Salt to taste
Method
1. Preparing the Leaves
- Wash the colocasia leaves thoroughly.
- Remove the stems and central veins (they can cause itchiness).
- Stack and roll the leaves tightly, then cut into thin slices.
2. Making the Masala
- In a mixer, grind coconut, red chilies, turmeric, and tamarind to a semi-coarse paste using a little water.
3. Cooking the Bhaji
- Heat oil in a pot. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add garlic and sauté till light golden.
- Add the chopped colocasia leaves and sauté for a few minutes.
- Add the ground masala, salt, and jaggery.
- Pour in about 1½ cups of water and stir.
- Cover and cook on low flame for 15–20 minutes until the leaves are tender and the curry thickens slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with steamed rice, chapati, or boiled Goan red rice. It pairs beautifully with fried papad or moong dal.
Tips for Perfect Teryachi Bhaji
- Adding tamarind is essential to reduce any itchiness from the leaves.
- Use young and tender taro leaves for best results.
- Always cook the leaves thoroughly.
A True Taste of Goan Monsoon
Whether you’re a local or a curious traveler, Teryachi Bhaji is a dish that brings the warmth of home and the flavor of tradition. Humble yet full of depth, it’s proof that the simplest ingredients, when paired with age-old wisdom, create culinary magic.
