Karuni Kizhangu Masiyal | Elephant Yam Mash | Healthy & Easy

“Wholesome, hearty, and full of flavor — the perfect companion for your hot rice!”

Karuni Kizhangu (Elephant Yam) is a nutritious vegetable popular in South Indian kitchens. Packed with fiber and essential nutrients, this simple Elephant Yam Masiyal is a comforting mash made with moong dal and tempered with mustard seeds and tangy lemon juice. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, chapathi, or dosa for a wholesome meal.

🛒 Ingredients

• Karuni Kizhangu (Elephant Yam) – 500 g (peeled and cut into big pieces)
• Moong dal – ½ cup (washed)
• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
• Tomato – 2 (roughly chopped)
• Ginger – 1 to 1.5 inch piece (finely chopped)
• Green chilies – 2 to 3
• Lemon – ½ to 1 (freshly squeezed)
• Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch
• Mustard seeds – 1 tsp
• Oil – 1 to 2 tbsp
• Salt – to taste
• Water – as needed
• Coriander leaves – handful (chopped)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Add moong dal, turmeric powder, chopped elephant yam, tomatoes, ginger, and green chilies into a pressure cooker. Add enough water to cover and cook.
2. Close the lid and pressure cook for 3 whistles on medium flame. Turn off heat and let the pressure release naturally.
3. Open the cooker and mash the cooked ingredients well using a masher or ladle. If too thick, add about half a glass of water and mix.
4. Add salt and mix well. Put the cooker back on low flame and let it boil for 1 minute.
5. Turn off the stove, add chopped coriander leaves, and mix. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice as per taste and stir gently.
7. For tempering: Heat oil in a small pan or in the pressure cooker itself. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add a pinch of asafoetida.
8. Pour this tempering over the mashed curry and mix well.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with steamed rice for a comforting meal.
• Goes well with chapathi, dosa.
• Perfect alongside a simple vegetable stir-fry or crispy papad.

🌿 Health Benefits of Elephant Yam

• Rich in dietary fiber aiding digestion and detoxification.
• Contains potassium and magnesium for heart and muscle health.
• Low in calories, supports healthy weight management.
• Boosts immune function with antioxidants and vitamins.

💡 Tips for Perfect Masiyal

• Use fresh elephant yam, peeled carefully (gloves recommended to avoid itching).
• Adjust lemon juice to balance the tanginess to your liking.
• Mash thoroughly for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Optional: Add a small pinch of jaggery to enhance the flavor if desired.

Enjoy this healthy, flavorful Elephant Yam Masiyal as a comforting and nutritious addition to your meal!

Video Tutorial