Gongura Oorgai (Sorrel Leaf Pickle)

Gongura pickle, a vibrant and tangy delight, is a cherished condiment in Indian cuisine, particularly in Andhra Pradesh. Made from the nutritious and slightly sour gongura leaves (also known as sorrel or roselle), this Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) version of the traditional pickle omits oil, making it a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. The…

Kollu Sundal (Horsegram Stir-fry)

Horsegram stir-fry is a wholesome and flavorful dish made from this nutrient-dense legume, known for its high protein and fiber content. The preparation starts with cooking soaked horsegram until tender, then stir-frying it with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. Common ingredients include mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and a blend of turmeric and chili…

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,…

Getti Chutney (Thick Coconut Chutney)

Getti chutney, a cherished accompaniment in South Indian cuisine, is known for its pristine white color and thick, coarse texture. Made primarily from grated coconut, it has a slightly grainy yet rich mouthfeel that provides a delightful contrast to the smoothness of idlis and the crispiness of dosas. The chutney is often tempered with mustard…

Kumblanga Pulissery (Ash Gourd Curry In A Yogurt Base)

Ash gourd pulissery, also known as ‘Kumbalanga pulissery’ in Kerala cuisine, is a delicious and comforting dish that showcases the versatility of ash gourd (winter melon). It is prepared by cooking cubes of ash gourd in a coconut-yogurt gravy seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and a hint of turmeric for color. The…

Peanut Rice

Aadi Perukku, celebrated in Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant festival that honors the life-giving rivers and the onset of the monsoon season. It’s a time of joy and gratitude, marked by colorful rituals and sumptuous feasts. One dish that stands out during this festive season is Peanut Rice. This simple yet delectable dish captures the…

Urulai Podimas (South Indian Style Mashed Potato)

This is a mildly spiced dish that is normally served with a sambar, for lunch. It has only very few ingredients, making it easy to prepare. But so that you are not deceived by the simplicity, the dish is very flavourful. Just a few things to bear in mind. Slit chilis are less spicy than…

Rasam Powder

Many South Indian households (as indeed all Indian households) have a variety of powders to be used in cooking. I presume this is because mornings have become really rushed. These powders, pre-prepared and stored, saves a lot of precious time. I am not really familiar with the powders in most parts of the country. But…

Mor Appam (Dumplings With Yogurt)

Mor Appam and Kuzhi Paniyaram are close cousins. While idli or dosa batter is used in kuzhi paniyaram, ground rice and yogurt are the main ingredients in mor appam. Both are tasty and bland dishes. Equally delicious. There is also a sweet version called nei appam – meaning ghee dumplings. I have made it with…

Barley Upma

Barley is not a cereal that I am very familiar with. It is not prominently displayed in either provision shops or supermarkets in North India. So it is never top-of-mind. But it was something that I always wanted to try. So I was delighted when I came across barley when I was ordering rice from…