KARAPPODI/GARLIC SPICE POWDER

Karappodi, this is known to every South Indian. The famous South Indian idly is incomplete without karappodi. This spicy powder is a favorite to everyone in my family. It can be served with almost all of the south Indian Tiffin's or even with rice. Karappodi with a spoonful of ghee forms a best combination for soft and fluffy idles. This spicy preparation when combined with garlic is very healthy.

INGREDIENTS

PROCEDURE

Heat oil in a pan and add the dals, when they are half fried add the coriander seeds, red chilies, jeera, tamarind pieces, garlic cloves.

Fry them on a low flame till they are fully fried and the dals turn crunchy.

Cool the whole mixture.

Add enough salt and grind to a slightly coarse powder.

Serve with idly or dosa or upma or even plain rice. Don?t forget to add a spoonful of ghee.

TIPS

Add more of the chilies to increase the spice.

Curry leaves and/or dry coconut can also be added for a different flavor and taste.

Fry the whole thing on a slow flame.

You can decrease the tamarind if you don?t like the tanginess. Cut the tamarind into very tiny pieces and fry them along with the other ingredients.