Gojju Avalakki (Puli Aval) Recipe: A Flavorful South Indian Breakfast Delight
Introduction
Gojju Avalakki, also known as Puli Aval or Tamarind Poha, is a beloved dish in Karnataka, particularly enjoyed for breakfast or as a savory snack. With a perfect blend of tangy tamarind, sweet jaggery, and aromatic spices, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors that can invigorate your senses. Whether served during regular mornings or on special occasions like Maha Shivarathri, when fasting-friendly foods are often preferred, Gojju Avalakki is sure to be a hit. This easy-to-make dish uses Avalakki (flattened rice) and is rich in taste, texture, and tradition. Let’s dive into making this quick and satisfying dish at home!
Cuisine: Karnataka
Course: South Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened rice) | 3 cups |
| Onions, finely diced | 2 |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, finely diced (optional) |
| Tamarind Paste | 1/4 cup (thick) |
| Jaggery | 3 tablespoons (reserve 1 tablespoon) |
| Sambar Powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 2 teaspoons |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 2 tablespoons |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 2 teaspoons |
| Roasted Peanuts (Moongphali) | 1/4 cup |
| Curry leaves | 10 |
| Green Chillies, slit | 2 (optional) |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Coriander leaves (Dhania) | 3 tablespoons, finely chopped |
| Fresh coconut, grated | 3 tablespoons |
| Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
Step 1: Start by preparing the tamarind base. In a mixing bowl, combine tamarind paste, jaggery, salt, and sambar powder. Mix well until everything is evenly blended.
Step 2: Add the Poha (flattened rice) to the tamarind mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the Poha is well-coated with the tamarind mixture. At this stage, sprinkle a little water over the Poha. Be cautious not to add too much water, as this can make the dish mushy. Allow the Poha to soak and absorb the flavors for 20-30 minutes.
Step 3: Heat oil in a wide pan or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter, signaling that the oil is properly heated.
Step 4: Add the split urad dal, chana dal, and roasted peanuts to the pan. Stir-fry them on low flame for about 2 minutes, ensuring they get an even color and become slightly crispy.
Step 5: Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing), slit green chilies, and curry leaves to the pan. Stir them together and let the spices release their fragrance.
Step 6: Toss in the finely chopped onions and turmeric powder. Season with a pinch of salt. Sauté the onions until they soften and begin to shrink, about 3-4 minutes. This process helps speed up the cooking of the onions.
Step 7: If you’re using green bell pepper (capsicum), add it to the pan now and mix it with the onion mixture. Let it cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 8: Now, add the reserved jaggery and dry tamarind powder (if using). Stir everything together and let the flavors combine. The jaggery will melt, creating a sweet and tangy coating for the Poha. This step helps to preserve the dish’s flavor for a longer time, preventing the Avalakki from turning bland.
Step 9: Add the soaked Poha (Avalakki) into the pan with the spice mixture. Gently stir it to combine everything thoroughly. Adjust salt to taste, and be careful not to break the Poha while mixing.
Step 10: Once everything is well-combined, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and grated coconut for added flavor and texture.
Step 11: Serve your Gojju Avalakki hot, paired with a steaming cup of Masala Chai and a Peanut Butter Banana Sandwich for a complete, satisfying breakfast.
Tips for the Perfect Gojju Avalakki
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Adjust the Spice Level: You can increase or decrease the number of green chilies depending on your preferred spice level. If you prefer a milder taste, you can skip them altogether.
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Soaking Time: Ensure that the Poha is soaked for at least 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flattened rice to absorb the tamarind and jaggery mixture, making it more flavorful.
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Add More Vegetables: While this recipe calls for optional capsicum, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas to make it more nutritious.
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Nutritional Benefits: Gojju Avalakki is rich in fiber from the Poha and antioxidants from the spices. It is a great vegetarian option for a quick breakfast or snack that provides energy without being too heavy.
Why You’ll Love Gojju Avalakki
Gojju Avalakki is not just a tasty dish but also a versatile one that fits well into various meals—be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of tangy tamarind, sweet jaggery, and savory spices creates a rich, complex flavor profile that is satisfying and hearty. Additionally, this dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings or light evening snacks.
Next time you’re looking for something unique and flavorful, give this Karnataka-style Gojju Avalakki a try. You’ll fall in love with its spicy, tangy goodness, and it’ll become a cherished addition to your breakfast table!
Enjoy your Gojju Avalakki with a cup of masala chai or any of your favorite beverages for a true taste of Karnataka’s culinary excellence.
