🥘 Tinda Masala Recipe | Make Punjabi Style Tinda Curry (Apple Gourd)

Looking for an easy Indian sabzi recipe that’s both healthy and flavorful? This Tinda Masala Recipe is a hidden gem in Indian home cooking. Often underrated, Tinda (apple gourd) is a summer vegetable rich in water content and dietary fiber. Made with everyday spices, Punjabi-style tinda sabzi is a comforting and quick Indian curry perfect for lunch or dinner.

Whether you’re searching for a simple Indian vegetarian curry, low-calorie meal, or a healthy sabzi for chapati, this dry tinda masala is the answer. Let’s dive into this delicious, wholesome, and gluten-free Indian recipe that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.

🛒 Ingredients for Tinda Masala

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Punjabi Tinda Masala

✅ Step 1: Prepare the Tinda (Apple Gourd)

1. Wash the tindas thoroughly.

2. Peel the skin using a vegetable peeler and chop them into medium-sized cubes.

3. Discard any hard seeds if present.

🔪 Tip: Try to pick small and tender tindas for better texture and flavor.

✅ Step 2: Make the Masala Base

1. Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed kadhai or pan until it starts to smoke. This helps eliminate the raw taste.

2. Reduce heat and add cumin seeds and a pinch of hing.

3. Add grated ginger and green chili; sauté for a few seconds.

4. Now add the dry spices: turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.

5. Stir quickly to avoid burning the spices.

✅ Step 3: Cook the Tindas

1. Add the chopped tinda pieces to the masala.

2. Mix well to coat them evenly with the spices.

3. Cover and cook on low flame for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally.

4. If it begins to stick, sprinkle 2–3 tbsp water and cover again.

🥄 Pro Tip: Don’t add too much water; tinda releases its own moisture during cooking.

✅ Step 4: Final Flavoring

1. Once the tinda is soft and cooked through, add garam masala and amchur powder.

2. Mix well and cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend.

3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

✅ Your Tinda Masala Curry is ready to serve!

🍛 How to Serve Tinda Masala

Tinda sabzi is a classic North Indian side dish best paired with:

• Hot phulkas or roti

• Jeera rice

• Paratha

• As part of a simple vegetarian thali

🗓️ Best Occasions to Enjoy Tinda Masala

🧾 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

💡 Gluten-free, vegan, and rich in dietary fiber, this dish is a perfect pick for mindful eaters.

❓ FAQs About Tinda Masala

Q. What is Tinda called in English?

Tinda is known as apple gourd or Indian baby pumpkin in English.

Q. Why does Tinda taste bland?

Tinda on its own is mild, but it absorbs spices beautifully. That’s why it’s often cooked with a flavorful masala.

Q. Can I make this without onion and garlic?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally a no onion, no garlic curry, perfect for Jain recipes or fasting days.

Q. How to store leftover tinda sabzi?

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stays fresh for up to 2 days.

💬 Interesting Facts

While Tinda curry may not be the most glamorous dish, it’s definitely one of the most underrated Indian vegetable recipes. This dry tinda masala recipe is packed with home-style flavors, made from clean ingredients, and works beautifully as part of your everyday meal plan.

Whether you’re looking for a light Indian curry, a healthy sabzi for roti, or a dish to beat the summer heat, this authentic Punjabi-style tinda recipe is a must-try. Add it to your weekly meal rotation and turn this humble veggie into a flavor-packed delight.