Verkadalai Sundal – Peanut Sundal Recipe
Description: Verkadalai Sundal, also known as Peanut Sundal, is a beloved South Indian snack and prasadam (offering) often made during the nine days of Navratri. It’s also a popular dish for festivals like Varalakshmi Vratam. This simple yet flavorful dish is packed with protein and offers numerous health benefits. The key ingredient, boiled peanuts, is known for its ability to lower bad cholesterol and reduce the chances of heart-related issues. This dish is easy to prepare, making it a great addition to festive meals or as a nutritious tea-time snack.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) | 2 cups |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 2 teaspoons |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ginger | 1 inch piece, finely chopped |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Fresh Coconut | 1/4 cup, grated |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | A few sprigs, finely chopped |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-5 servings
Instructions:
-
Cook the Peanuts:
Begin by adding the raw peanuts along with 1 cup of water into a pressure cooker. Pressure cook for about 5 to 6 whistles, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 3 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Once done, set the cooked peanuts aside. -
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat a pan on medium heat and add the sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them crackle, then add the white urad dal. Continue cooking until the dal turns golden brown. -
Add Aromatics:
Now, add the asafoetida (hing), ginger, green chillies, and curry leaves to the pan. Sauté everything for a few seconds until the spices release their aroma. -
Combine Peanuts and Coconut:
Add the cooked peanuts to the pan and stir well. Season with salt to taste and mix in the freshly grated coconut. Stir-fry everything for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Finish and Garnish:
Finally, add the finely chopped coriander leaves and give everything one last gentle mix. Turn off the heat and transfer the Verkadalai Sundal into serving bowls. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delicious Peanut Sundal during Navratri or enjoy it as a healthy, protein-packed tea-time snack. Pair it with a cup of South Indian filter coffee for a complete experience!
This Verkadalai Sundal is not only a perfect snack but also a wholesome offering for religious and cultural celebrations. Packed with the goodness of peanuts, it’s a dish that combines health with tradition, bringing together flavors that are simple yet satisfying. Enjoy the delightful crunch and spice of this South Indian classic!
