Kaara Kuzhambu is a popular South Indian sambar variety.
Ingredients:
Drumsticks – 2, chopped
Onion – 4, finely chopped
Tomatoes – 4, finely chopped
Potato (or Brinjal) – 2, chopped
Kara Kuzhambu Podi – 4 tsp
Curry Leaves – handful, chopped
Turmeric Powder – 1 tsp
Tamarind Extract – 1 cup
Salt as per taste
For tempering:
Oil – 1/4 cup
Mustard Seeds – 1 tsp
Fenugreek Seeds – 1/4 tsp
Asafoetida Powder – 1/2 tsp
Dry Red Chillies – 4
Bengal Gram – 2 tsp
Curry Leaves – handful, chopped
Garlic – 8 cloves, finely chopped
Fenugreek Seeds – 1/2 tsp
Method:
1. Heat oil in a pan.
2. Add the tempering ingredients (except garlic) in the order mentioned and fry for a minute or two.
3. Add garlic, onions, potatoes and drumsticks.
4. Saute for 2 minutes.
5. Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder and stir well.
6. Now add tomatoes and cook for a minute.
7. Pour the tamarind extract and add salt.
8. Mix well and bring to a boil.
9. Add kara kuzhambu powder and a little water.
10. Mix well and remove.
11. Serve hot with rice.
Note: Kara Kuzhambu Podi is available in most major stores these days. If it is not available then use the below recipe
Ingredients for Kara Kuzhambu Powder:
Dry Red Chillies – 250 gms
Coriander Seeds – 1 tblsp
Cumin Seeds – 1 tblsp
Black Peppercorns – 1/2 tblsp
Asafoetida – a small piece
Method:
1. Dry roast all the ingredients till light brown.
2. Grind together to a fine powder.
3. Store in a clean, sterilized bottle and close with a lid.
4. Use as required.
image credit: versatileindianrecipes.blogspot.com
