Bhutanese Pumpkin and Cheese Curry
Kakur Kam
Kakur Kam is a unique Bhutanese dish that combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the savory tang of cheese. This curry offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, often enhanced with a hint of spice from chilies and the aromatic warmth of ginger and garlic. It's a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect served with Bhutanese red rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or butter
- 1 medium Onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Ginger, grated
- 2 Green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Water
- 100 g Bhutanese cheese (or feta/processed cheese), cubed or grated
- to taste Salt
- 0.5 tsp Sichuan pepper (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat oil or butter in a pot or pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden.
💡 Tip: Using butter can add a richer flavor to the curry. - 2
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference. - 3
Add the cubed pumpkin to the pot and stir to coat with the aromatics. Pour in the water and bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pumpkin cubes are not too large, so they cook evenly. - 4
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking the pumpkin, as it can become mushy. - 5
Stir in the cheese, salt, and Sichuan pepper (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the curry, creating a creamy consistency.
💡 Tip: If using a harder cheese like feta, it might take a little longer to melt. Stir continuously to prevent sticking. - 6
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, typically with Bhutanese red rice.
💡 Tip: This dish pairs well with plain rice, allowing the flavors of the curry to shine.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a sweeter dish, use a sweeter variety of pumpkin.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker curry, you can mash some of the cooked pumpkin against the side of the pot.
- ✓Sun-dried pumpkin (Kakur Kam) can also be used, which will require rehydration before cooking and may alter the cooking time.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a small amount of dried buffalo meat for a non-vegetarian version.
- Incorporate other vegetables like diced tomatoes or leeks.
- A pinch of turmeric powder can be added for color and a subtle earthy flavor.