Vepampoo Kara Kuzhambu Recipe
Description:
Vepampoo, or neem flowers, is known for its many health benefits. In this recipe, we prepare a delicious and tangy South Indian kolamb (sauce) that features neem flowers. The dish is salt-free and uses tamarind to add a rich and tangy flavor.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
- 12 small onions
- 4 to 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 3/4 tablespoon sambar powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Tamarind (chopped)
- Lemon juice (to taste)
- Water (as needed)
- Salt (to taste)
For tempering:
- 3 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida
- 1/3 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon chana dal
- 2 dried red chilies
For second tempering:
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon dried neem leaves
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare Tamarind Juice:
Extract the juice from tamarind and set it aside. -
Cook the Aromatics:
Heat sesame oil in a pan. Add asafoetida, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, chana dal, and dried red chilies. Cook for about 1 minute until the seeds crackle and release their aroma. -
Add Garlic and Onion:
Add the chopped garlic to the pan and cook for another minute. Next, add the small onions and cook until they become soft. -
Spice it Up:
Once the onions are soft, add the turmeric powder, sambar powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix everything together and cook for 1 more minute. -
Add Tamarind Juice and Simmer:
Pour in the tamarind juice, the remaining water, and curry leaves. Stir everything well and let it simmer until the mixture thickens. -
Temper the Neem Leaves:
Heat a small tempering pan and add the sesame oil. Once hot, add the dried neem leaves and fry them until they are crisp. You can roast them without oil as well if you prefer. -
Combine and Serve:
Add the roasted neem leaves to the simmering kolamb and stir well to combine. -
Serve:
Serve your Veppampoo Kara Kuzhambu with steamed rice, chow chow thoran, and crispy papad for a perfect South Indian lunch!
Enjoy this healthy, tangy dish thatβs as delicious as it is nutritious!
