Sundakkai vatha kuzhambu

This vatha kuzhambu is prepared either with dried or fresh sundakkai. This time I bought dried one from India during my last visit. I made plain cabbage poriyal to go with this main dish. It taste just divine.

Even the store bought vatha kuzhambu powder can be used, but I am sure the homemade powder will make a big difference in taste. I never forget to serve this dish along with pappads. (If the fresh sundakkai is used, add them after frying the tomatoes.) I like to have this with rotis & dosas too. Its yummy :)

Ingredients :

1. Dry sundakkai - 1/4 cup
2. Finely chopped onion - 1 no
3. Tomato - 1 no
4. Tamarind puree - 1 cup (diluted in water)
5. Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp
6. Chilly powder - 1/4 tsp (optional)
7. Water - 1/2 cup
8. Oil - 4 tsp
9. Jaggery or sugar - a pinch
10. Salt to taste

For tempering :

1. Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
2. Fenugreek seeds - 1/4 tsp
3. Red chillies - 4 nos
4. Curry leaves - 1 tbsp
5. Channa dal - 1 tsp
6. A pinch of hing

For vatha kulambu powder :

1. Corriander seeds - 1 tsp
2. Toor dal - 2 tsp
3. Channa dal - 2 tsp
4. Cumin seeds -1 tsp
5. Sesame seeds - 1 tsp
6. Pottu kadalai - 2 tsp
7. Red chillies - 4 nos
8. A pinch of hing

Dry roast these ingredients & grind them to fine powder.

Method :

1. Heat oil in the pan, add the seasonings. When the mustard crackles, add the finely chopped onion & saute till tender.

2. Add finely chopped riped tomatoes & salt to taste.

3. Add turmeric powder, chilly powder & saute. Add the tamarind juice. Cover & cook till it becomes thick consistency.

4. Add grounded spice powder & a pinch of jaggery. Cook for 3 more mins.

5. Add the sundakkai vathal & cook for 4 more mins. If needed add some water & additional salt.

Serve with rice.