Andhra Style Paruppu Podi (Dal Podi) Recipe
Andhra Style Paruppu Podi, or Dal Podi, is a traditional South Indian condiment that adds a burst of flavors to your meal. Known for its unique blend of roasted lentils, red chilies, and aromatic spices, this podi (powder) is typically served with hot steamed rice, a dollop of ghee (clarified butter) or sesame oil, and a side of Keerai Sambar. Its delightful, savory taste makes it a perfect accompaniment for rice and even as a snack with crispy dosas or idlis.
This recipe, often prepared in Andhra households, uses a combination of various dals (lentils) and spices that deliver a delicious, nutty flavor with a hint of spice. Simple yet flavorful, Andhra Style Paruppu Podi is an essential part of the South Indian culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 2 tablespoons |
| Black Urad dal (Split) | 2 tablespoons |
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 2 tablespoons |
| Yellow Moong dal (Split) | 2 tablespoons |
| Horse gram dal (Kollu/Kulith) | 2 tablespoons |
| Dry Red Chillies | 10 to 12 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Jaggery | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 4
Cuisine & Diet
- Cuisine: Andhra (South Indian)
- Course: Side Dish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Roasting Red Chillies: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a kadhai (wok) or a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the dry red chillies and roast them on low flame for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become aromatic and slightly charred. Once done, transfer the chillies to a plate and set them aside.
-
Roasting Lentils (Dals): In the same pan, add another 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil. Next, add the chana dal, black urad dal, arhar dal, yellow moong dal, and horse gram dal to the pan. Roast them on a low flame, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and release a pleasant aroma. This process should take about 8-10 minutes.
-
Cooling Down: Once the dals are roasted, transfer them to a plate and allow them to cool completely.
-
Grinding the Ingredients: After the roasted ingredients have cooled, it’s time to grind them. In a grinder or mixer, first add the roasted red chillies, salt, jaggery, and asafoetida. Grind these into a fine powder. Then, add the roasted dals to the grinder and pulse them into a coarse powder, ensuring the texture is slightly gritty but evenly mixed.
-
Serving: Your Andhra Style Paruppu Podi (Dal Podi) is ready! Serve it with hot steamed rice and a generous dollop of ghee or gingerly oil for the authentic South Indian experience. For an even more satisfying meal, enjoy it with Keerai Sambar (spinach-based curry), making it a complete and wholesome dish.
Tips for the Best Paruppu Podi:
- Roasting the Dals: It’s crucial to roast the dals until they are golden brown, as this enhances their flavor and adds a nutty crunch to the podi.
- Adjusting Spice Level: The number of dry red chillies can be adjusted based on your preferred spice level. If you like it milder, reduce the number of chillies or opt for milder varieties.
- Storage: You can store this podi in an airtight container for up to a week. This makes it an excellent dish to prepare in advance and have on hand for busy days.
Why You’ll Love Andhra Style Paruppu Podi
- Flavorful: The combination of roasted lentils, spicy red chillies, and aromatic spices offers a delicious, flavorful addition to any South Indian meal.
- Versatile: This podi can be enjoyed in various ways: with rice, dosa, idli, or even as a spread on bread for a quick snack.
- Healthy: Packed with protein from the dals and the natural sweetness from jaggery, this dish is not only tasty but also nourishing.
Whether you’re a fan of South Indian cuisine or just looking to add something new to your cooking repertoire, Andhra Style Paruppu Podi is a must-try recipe that brings comfort and joy to your meals.
