June 26, 2014

Chinna Ulli Vatha Kuzhambu

Vatha Kuzhambu is a Tangy koottan, that can be served with plain Rice. Various vadams,Chundakka and Marathankali can be added to it. Another option to add is Chinna Ulli/Shallots/Pearl Onions. 

Chinna Ulli Vatha Kuzhambu is our Family Favorite!! Off to the recepie now..

Ingredients:-

  • Pearl Onions/Shallots – about 20
  • Tamarind – a gooseberry sized ball
  • Sambar Powder – 1.5 - 2 tbsp (adjust according to your spice level)
  • Jaggery – ½ tsp (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Turmeric Powder – ¼ tsp

For tempering

  • Sesame Oil – 2 tbsp
  • Mustard Seeds – 1 tsp
  • Bengal Gram Dal/Channa Dal/Kadala Paruppu – 1 tsp
  • Curry Leaves – few
To Grind
  • Red Chillies - 5/6
  • Dhaniya Powder - 1 Tsp
  • Black Pepper- 5/6
  • Jeera - 1 Tsp
  • Fenugreek Seeds - 1 Tsp
  • Coconut - 2 Tbsp
Method

  • Heat a Kadai and dry roast the Items under ' To Grind'. 
  • Allow it too Cool and Grind the Items to a Paste
  • Peel and wash the shallots.
  • Soak the tamarind in hot water for 10 minutes and extract the pulp by adding 2.5 to 3 cups of water.
  • Heat a kadai with oil, splutter mustard seeds.
  • Throw in the Channa dal and fenugreek seeds and fry till the dal turn golden.
  • Add the curry leaves and the shallots and sauté till the shallots turn light brown.
  • Next add the Sambar Powder and sauté for few seconds.
  • Now add the tamarind extract, turmeric powder and salt to taste and jaggery.
  • Allow this to come to a boil, lower heat to medium 
  • Add the grinded Paste to the Kuzhambu and boil for 15 to 20 minutes or till the oil floats up and the kuzhambu becomes slightly thick.