Vendakkai Kichadi

I prefer Lady’s finger pachadi over the numerous varieties of thayir pachadis. So I thought of opening this category with my favourite choice.

The title should have rightly been Venkakkai Kichadi – as curd based pachadis are known as Kichadi and form an important part of the Sadhya or feast. But in our house we just refer to them as Thayir pachadi so I stuck with that name. You could use other veggies, like cooked ashgourd pieces, or banana stem pieces as well instead of lady’s finger. Tastes best as an accompaniment with rice and Molagootal.

What you’ll need

1. Lady’s Finger /Vendakkai – 200 gms
2. Green Chillies – 1 or 2
3. Fresh Grated Coconut – ½ cup
4. Fresh Thick Curd – 2 Cups
5. Mustard Seeds –1/4 tsp
6. Curry Leaves – few
7. Salt to taste
8. Oil – 2 tsp

For Tempering

1. Oil – 1 tsp
2. Mustard Seeds – 1 tsp

Method

1. Wash and pat dry the lady’s finger. Cut into small pieces.
2. Heat a kadai with oil. Add the lady’s finger pieces, cover and cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the lid and fry for another 5 to 10 minutes, on low heat, stirring every now and then.
4. Once the lady’s finger is fried well, add salt and mix well.
5. Remove from heat. And let it cool.
6. In the meanwhile, grind coconut, green chillies, mustard seeds and curry leaves to a smooth paste adding a little water.
7. Beat the curd well, add the coconut paste and fried lady’s finger. Mix well and check for seasoning.
8. Heat a small frying pan with a tsp of oil. Add mustard seeds. Once they splutter pour the seasoning over the pachadi.