Beetroot Palu Iguru (Beetroot Milk Curry)

Beetroot Palu Iguru is a mildly spiced, creamy Andhra-style curry prepared with beetroot cooked in milk. It is slightly sweet, nutritious, and light on the stomach. The natural sweetness of beetroot blends beautifully with milk, while ginger-garlic and garam masala add gentle warmth and aroma. This curry pairs perfectly with hot steamed rice.

Ingredients

• Beetroot – 2 medium (peeled and thinly sliced)
• Oil – 2 tbsp
• Onion – 1 medium (finely chopped)
• Green chillies – 2–3 (slit)
• Curry leaves – few
• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tsp
• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
• Red chilli powder – ½ tsp (adjust to taste)
• Garam masala – ¼ tsp
• Salt – to taste
• Milk – ½ to ¾ cup (boiled and cooled)
• Coriander leaves – for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare beetroot:
   Wash, peel, and slice the beetroot thinly so it cooks evenly.
2. Saute the base:
   Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onions, green chillies, and curry leaves. Saute until onions turn translucent.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste:
   Add ginger-garlic paste and saute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Cook beetroot:
   Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and beetroot slices. Mix well.
   Sprinkle a little water, cover, and cook on low flame until beetroot becomes soft.
5. Add milk and garam masala:
   Reduce the flame completely. Add milk slowly while stirring continuously.
   Sprinkle garam masala and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Finish:
   Add salt, mix gently, and turn off the flame. Garnish with coriander leaves.
7. Serve:
   Serve hot with steamed rice or soft chapati.

Health Benefits

• Beetroot improves blood circulation and boosts hemoglobin.
• Rich in fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
• Milk adds calcium and protein.
• Ginger-garlic supports digestion and immunity.

Tips

• Slice beetroot thin for faster cooking.
• Always add milk on low flame to avoid curdling.
• Adjust red chilli powder according to sweetness of beetroot.
• Avoid sour ingredients like tomato or tamarind.

Variations

• Without onion & garlic: Suitable for fasting or sattvic meals.
• With coconut milk: Replace milk with coconut milk for richer taste.
• Thicker curry: Add 1 tsp rice flour mixed with milk before adding to curry.