Tippili Rasam

Tippili Rasam is a traditional South Indian soup known for its warming and medicinal properties. Made with long pepper (Piper longum), known as “Tippili ” in Tamil, this rasam is cherished for its ability to soothe the throat and aid digestion. The long pepper, which has a spicier and more complex flavor compared to black…

Raw Plantain And Chinese Potato Curry

For the life of me, I do not know why the vegetable is called Chinese potato. I am fairly sure that the Chinese do not consume it. As also raw plantain. But both these are abundantly available in Kerala, a tiny state in the Southern tip of India. The high amount of potassium found in…

Green Tomato Curry

Green tomato curry is prepared in several Indian states, each different from the other. The taste is flavourful and tangy – quite different from the red tomatoes. Last year, I had planted a large batch of heirloom tomatoes and has a huge haul. I distributed generously to neighbours who were all raving about the variety….

Curried Ash Gourd And Elephant Foot Yam

My eldest paternal aunt used to be in charge of the kitchen in our ancestral village home. She therefore had many recipes. Nothing complicated, just simple homely fare. Given the abject poverty, recipes never had any expensive ingredients. Plus, being joint family, there were a lot of mouths to feed. My aunt had jotted down…

Dahi Wali Aloo (Potatoes In A Yogurt Sauce)

Banarasi Dahi Wale Aloo is a traditional dish from Banaras, known for its creamy texture and rich, tangy flavors. The star ingredient of this dish is baby potatoes, which are boiled and then simmered in a yogurt-based gravy. The yogurt, or dahi, imparts a delightful tanginess that balances the spices perfectly. Key spices used include…

Nenthra Pazha Pulissery (Ripe Banana Curry)

Nenthra Pazha Pulissery is a traditional Kerala dish that beautifully combines the sweetness of ripe plantains (nenthra pazham) with the tangy richness of yogurt. This curry is a staple in many Kerala households, particularly during festive occasions and Sadya (feast) meals. The dish is a delightful balance of flavors, where the naturally sweet plantains are…

Teasel Gourd Curry

Teasel gourd masala, a flavorful Indian dish, highlights the distinct taste and texture of teasel gourd, also known as kakrol. In this recipe, the gourds are typically sliced and sautéed until golden brown, creating a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining their crunch. The masala base, rich and aromatic, is made from onions, tomatoes, and a…

Aloo Bharta (Mashed Potatoes Indian Style)

Aloo Bharta is a beloved Indian dish that celebrates the humble potato in a flavorful way. This traditional recipe involves boiling potatoes until tender, then mashing them with a blend of spices, fresh herbs, and often a touch of onions and tomatoes. The result is a comforting, creamy mash that packs a punch of flavor….

Eggplant Rasam

Eggplant Rasam is a delightful and aromatic South Indian soup, combining the unique flavors of roasted eggplant with traditional spices. This dish stands out for its tangy and slightly spicy profile, enhanced by the addition of tamarind and a blend of cumin, pepper, and coriander. Eggplant, or brinjal as it is commonly known in India,…

Potatoes In A Tomato Gravy

Palakkad, a district in Kerala, India, is known for its distinct and flavorful cuisine. One of its beloved dishes is Urulai Kizhangu Tomato Curry, a potato dish simmered in a tangy tomato gravy. This vegetarian delicacy combines tender potatoes with a rich sauce made from ripe tomatoes, coconut, and a blend of traditional spices such…