Are you a vatha kuzhambu fan but dread allowing it to boil for such a long time to achieve the consistency and taste? Then for sure try this recipe! You can make the authentic vatha kuzhambu in less than 10 minutes using the OPOS method.
Vatha Kuzhambu is a traditional dish made with dried berries and tamarind extract. It keeps well for many days in the refrigerator. It goes well with white rice topped with ghee or sesame oil, or with curd rice. This is my all time favorite and I am totally satisfied with the outcome.
Secret is to use sesame oil and be generous with it! Using any other oil does not give the authentic taste.
Ingredients Required:
Tamarind Paste - 1 tblsp
Sesame oil - 2 tblsp
Dried Berries (Sundakkai or Manthakalikai) - 1 tblsp
Hing - a big pinch
Water - 1/2 cup
Vatha Kuzhambu Spice Powder - 2 tblsp
Salt - 1 tsp (or as per taste)
Vatha Kuzhambu Spice Powder:
Urad Dhal - 2 tblsp
Pepper - 1 tblsp
Red Chilli - 6
Ghee - 1 tsp
Fry the above in a tsp of ghee and then grind to a fine powder. Store in air tight container.
How to make?
OPOS Method:
In a heavy bottom small pressure cooker, layer the below.
Layer 1 - oil+water
Layer 2 - dried berries + tamarind paste
Layer 3 (PIP) - In a small bowl, mix the spice powder and salt with 1/2 cup of water.
Pressure cook on high for 3 whistles.
Allow the pressure to settle naturally.
Open the cooker, mix the spice powder with the kuzhambu and if required allow to simmer for few minutes.
Seasoning:
Sesame Oil - 1 tblsp
Mustard Seeds - 1 tsp
Curry leaves - few
In a small pan, add the oil and when hot, add the mustard seeds and curry leaved. Allow to splutter and add to the kuzhambu.
Normal Method:
In a heavy bottom pan, add the tblsp of oil and the dried berries. Fry well
Add 1.5 cups of water and the tamarind paste, mix well.
Add the spice powder, salt and mix well.
Allow to boil for 15 minutes so it thickens
Serve with white rice and ghee.
Comments
Post a Comment