New Delhi: Onam 2026 celebrations continue across Kerala with Chithira, the second day of the 10-day harvest festival. The day follows Atham and is closely
associated with expanding the pookalam, the colourful floral arrangement that welcomes the annual visit of the legendary King Mahabali. Fresh layers of yellow and orange flower petals are traditionally added to the design, while families focus on preparing their homes and making arrangements for the festivities that culminate on Thiruvonam.
Chithira is also a day when households clean and decorate their surroundings, visit temples and plan shopping for the grand Onam feast. With the festive spirit building up, food remains at the heart of the celebrations. If preparing a full Onam sadya is not possible, a simple and comforting Olan curry can bring a taste of Kerala to the dining table. Here is the recipe.
Olan curry recipe
A staple dish in the traditional Onam sadya, Olan is known for its mild flavours and creamy coconut milk base. Made with ash gourd and cowpeas, the dish pairs well with steamed rice and can be prepared with a handful of ingredients.
Olan curry ingredients
- 1 cup ash gourd, chopped
- ½ cup cooked cow peas
- 1.5 cups coconut milk
- 2 green chillies, slit
- 5-6 curry leaves
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Salt, to taste
Olan curry preparation method
- Heat the coconut oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds. Once they begin to crackle, add the curry leaves and slit green chillies.
- Add the chopped ash gourd and sauté for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
- Stir in the cooked cow peas and pour in the coconut milk.
- Add salt according to taste and mix everything well.
- Let the curry simmer gently for 7-8 minutes, allowing the flavours to come together.
- Check the seasoning and serve warm with rice.
As families continue their Onam preparations on Chithira, this light and flavourful Olan curry offers an easy way to enjoy a traditional Kerala dish at home. Serve it alongside warm rice for a comforting festive meal.
