#29 : Nuvvula Podi ~ Spiced Sesame powder

Sesame seeds are high in calcium and have fibers that can lower the cholesterol level. In Ayurveda, sesame oil is used as a base in detox treatments like Panchakarma and is extensively used in preparation of medicines and mixtures. This spice powder requires only a few ingredients and can be done in under 15mins. Mix this up with hot rice and a dollop of ghee and it makes a perfect quick meal for the busy days.  

#3 : Kuralakaram

'Kuralakaram' is a spice powder mix used to season vegetables. This adds a beautiful nutty flavor to the vegetable . esp eggplant and potato. Every time someone comes through India , my mom in law sends a small bag of it across . Last summer when she was here visiting us , I couldn't pass up on the opportunity to learn to make it .

Ingredients:

• 1/2 heaped cup Channa Dhal
• 1/2 heaped cup Urad Dhal
• 2 tsp Dhaniya
• 15 Big Dry Red Chilli
• 1/4 tsp - Mustard seeds
• 1/4 tsp - Cumin Seeds
• 1/4 tsp - Fenugreek powder
• 1/8 tsp - Asafoetida
• 2 tsp - Oil
• Salt to taste     

Method:

1. Heat oil in a skillet . Add in the channa dhal , urad Dhal , dhaniya , red chillies and roast for 5-7 mins on medium flame until the dhals turn deeper in color . Make sure to keep stirring or else the mixture might burn 
2. Add the mustard seeds , cumin seeds and fenugreek powder and continue roasting until the mustard seeds splutter . Turn off the stove 
3. Add asafoetida to it and and let it cool completely 
4. Dry grind the dhal mixture and 1.5 tsp of salt to a powder 
5. Can store in an air tight container for 4-6 weeks

#2 : Putnala Podi

'Putnalu' in  Telugu translates to the Indian variety of dry roasted Chickpeas . This spice powder has a subtle flavor and is usually eaten with rice and a drizzling of ghee. We all have our favorites. I love sprinkling in over Upma while my Husband likes to add to Yogurt . Putnala Podi also tastes great with Iddli and Dosa .

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Putnalu 
• 1/2 heaped cup dried coconut powder
• 12 Red Chillies
• 2 tsp Cumin Seeds
• Salt to taste     

Method:

1. Dry grind all the above Ingredients to a  fine powder
2. Can store in an air tight container for 4-6 weeks
3. A perfect accompaniment to add to  Rice , Idli , Dosa or Upma