Ellu Kuzhambu Recipe – Sesame Seeds Kuzhambu
Description:
Ellu Kuzhambu, also known as Sesame Seeds Kuzhambu, is a delectable and tangy South Indian curry that features the rich flavors of sesame seeds. A traditional recipe typically served with rice, appam, or dosa, Ellu Kuzhambu brings together the earthy taste of sesame seeds, a burst of flavor from tomatoes, tamarind, and a medley of aromatic Indian spices. The dish can be further enriched by adding vegetables, making it a versatile and nutrient-packed meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or prepare a cozy dinner, Ellu Kuzhambu is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pearl onions (Sambar onions), chopped | 1 cup |
| Potatoes (Aloo), cut into cubes | 2 |
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 2 |
| Red Chilli powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | As required |
| Tamarind | 25 grams |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Methi seeds (Fenugreek seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sesame seeds (Til seeds) | 1 tablespoon |
| Black sesame seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 2 teaspoons |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare Tamarind Extract:
Begin by soaking 25 grams of tamarind in 2 glasses of water. Set it aside to extract the juice while you prepare the other ingredients. -
Roast Sesame Seeds:
Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and black sesame seeds, dry roasting them for a few seconds until they release a delightful aroma and begin to pop. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside. -
Roast Dals:
In the same pan, dry roast the urad dal and chana dal until they turn golden brown. Once done, remove them from the pan and place them in a bowl to cool. -
Roast Cumin Seeds:
Finally, dry roast the cumin seeds until they change color slightly. Once roasted, transfer them to the bowl with the dals and allow everything to cool. -
Grind the Roasted Ingredients:
Once the sesame seeds, dals, and cumin seeds have cooled, add them to a mixer grinder along with the black pepper powder. Grind everything into a fine powder. -
Cook the Kuzhambu:
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and methi seeds to the hot oil. Allow the seeds to splutter, releasing their flavors. -
Sauté Onions and Tomatoes:
Add the chopped pearl onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown. Then, add the finely chopped tomatoes, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Sauté everything together until the tomatoes soften and become mushy. -
Add Tamarind Extract:
Pour in the tamarind extract and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the raw smell of the tamarind disappears. -
Add Sesame Powder and Simmer:
Once the tamarind extract has boiled, add the ground sesame powder to the pan. Stir well and cook the Ellu Kuzhambu for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Final Touch:
Turn off the heat and your fragrant, savory Ellu Kuzhambu is ready to be served.
Serving Suggestions
Ellu Kuzhambu pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, Mangalorean Neer Dosa, or Poha Dosa. You can also serve it with idli or chapati for a delightful South Indian meal. The subtle spice, tang, and richness of sesame seeds create a truly comforting experience with every bite.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Tips:
- For added flavor, you can incorporate vegetables like drumstick (Moringa), brinjal (eggplant), or carrots to the curry.
- Adjust the tamarind and spice levels according to your preference to achieve a perfect balance of tang and heat.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the sesame mixture into a paste before adding it to the curry.
Ellu Kuzhambu brings the warm, earthy goodness of sesame seeds and the perfect balance of flavors, making it a delightful dish to enjoy with family and friends. This South Indian classic is not only healthy and satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare. Happy cooking!
