Mezhukkupuratti is a traditional dry stir-fry from Kerala, South India, known for its simplicity and depth of flavor, typically made without a gravy and using minimal spices. The term “mezhukkupuratti” roughly translates to “coated with oil,” but Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) adaptations use water-sautéing instead. Among the many vegetables used, elephant yam (chena) is especially…
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Delicious Vellarikka Pachadi Recipe from Kerala
Vellarikka Pachadi is a traditional Kerala dish made from yellow cucumber (vellarikka), coconut, green chilies, and yogurt, tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves. It has a creamy texture with a mild spiciness and a hint of tang from the yogurt, beautifully balanced by the sweetness of fresh coconut. Visually, it’s a light yellow curry…
Nutrient-Rich Nenthran Pazham: A Vegan Delight
Nenthran Pazha Pradhaman is a traditional Kerala dessert reimagined the WFPB way—made with ripe nenthran bananas that are steamed, mashed, and gently simmered with date paste and creamy homemade coconut milk, without any jaggery, oil, or refined ingredients. Garnished with dry-roasted cashews and raisins, it has a naturally rich brown color and deep, caramel-like sweetness…
Thanjavur Mor Keerai Kootu: A Creamy Tamil Dish
Thanjavur Mor Keerai Kootu is a dish where health, tradition, taste, and comfort converge in perfect harmony. Hailing from the culturally rich region of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, this dish is a creamy blend of greens (usually amaranth or spinach), coconut, and buttermilk, gently tempered with mustard, red chillies, and curry leaves. Its uniqueness lies…
Basil Chammanthi: A Fresh Twist on South Indian Chutneys
A basil-based chammanthi, thogayal, or pachadi is a refreshing twist on traditional South Indian condiments—perfect with rice. The sweet, peppery aroma of basil blends beautifully with coconut, lentils, tamarind, and mild spices, creating a bold yet balanced flavor. It’s easy to adjust the heat, making it family-friendly or fiery as desired. Beyond the taste, basil…
Crisp Cucumber Kosumalli: A Festive Delight
Kosumalli, also known as kosambari in some regions, is a traditional South Indian salad made with fresh vegetables, lentils, coconut, and a light tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves. With its roots in Tamil and Kerala cuisine, kosumalli is celebrated for its simplicity, freshness, and balance of textures. There are several regional variations—some made…
Saffron and Spice: Revamping Zafrani Pulao
Zafrani Pulao, traditionally rich with ghee and cream, can be beautifully reimagined within a Whole-Food, Plant-Based (WFPB) lifestyle—without losing its royal charm. By swapping out oil and dairy for whole spices, saffron, and naturally fragrant ingredients, the dish becomes both heart-healthy and nourishing. Saffron, the star of the pulao, offers anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing benefits, while…
The Real Benefits of Saffron: More Than Myths
Saffron is often surrounded by myths claiming it can instantly cure depression, dramatically boost fertility, act as a powerful aphrodisiac, or even cure cancer—none of which are fully supported by science. However, research has shown that saffron does offer real benefits when used in moderation (around 30 mg per day). It has been found to…
Traditional Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe with a WFPB Twist
Every region and household in India has its own favorite pudding, each carrying memories of warmth and tradition. When I was growing up, a kind elder in my family would often make rich, aromatic kesari, filling the house with the comforting scent of cardamom and simmering semolina. Though she is long gone, the taste of…
WFPB Radish Pods Curry: A Nutritious Delight
WFPB Radish Pods Curry is a nutritious and flavorful dish made by cooking tender radish pods (moongre or sengri) in a spiced tomato-based gravy, without oil. These pods have a mildly peppery taste and are a seasonal delicacy primarily found in North India, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Radish pods are grown on mature…
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