Avalose Unda with Chaya – Kerala Tea Time Nostalgia

Avalose Unda alias Ari Unda – A Love Story I Never Had

“Before we roll into the recipe, let me take you back to a kitchen filled with tins, laughter, and a certain hard rock ball I never quite understood…”

 

Ammamma’s Chutney with Fresh Ingredients

Ammamma's Chutney -  That Travelled With Me, Stayed With My Amma

    You know a recipe is special when it tiptoes into your mom’s kitchen, and then proudly takes centre stage as her signature dish. Ammamma’s Chutney, as lovingly named by my kids, is just that—a humble tomato-onion-coconut chutney I tried out during my college days that now has a legacy of its own in our home.

    This isn’t your traditional chutney—it’s my own take on the classic Tamil-style kara chutney, reimagined with a generous scoop of grated coconut, a hint of tamarind, and a handful of fresh herbs for that extra hug of comfort. It’s authentically Tamil at heart, but with a whisper of Malayalee influence—because honestly, how can a Malayalee make chutney without sneaking in some coconut? The result? Something uniquely mine, stirred with memory, spice, and a little cultural mischief.

Erode Style Mutton Thanni Kuzhambu & Mutton Varuval - A Journey through Kongu Cuisine & Kida Vettu Culture

    When the villagers of Tamil Nadu face hardships—whether it’s a bout of illness among their cattle, a streak of bad weather, or any other misfortune—they turn to their gods for solace and solutions. One such powerful tradition is the Kida Vettu, a ceremonial lamb sacrifice to appease the deities and seek their blessings. This ritual is not just about appeasing the gods; it's a vibrant community event steeped in tradition and delicious food.

    Traditionally, Getti Chutney is ground using an Ammikkal, a flat stone mortar and a cylindrical pestle.  It is known for its effectiveness in grinding various spices, herbs, and other ingredients used in South Indian cuisine. It provides a unique texture and flavour to the ground ingredients, giving dishes an authentic taste.  It is believed that the slow grinding process in the ammikkal helps retain the natural flavours, helps release the essential oils and aromas of the ingredients, resulting in rich and flavourful preparations.

    Using an ammikkal requires a bit of physical effort and patience compared to modern kitchen appliances like blenders or food processors. However, many people still prefer the traditional method as it is believed to enhance the taste and texture of the dishes. So, when preparing recipes like Getti Chutney, using an ammikkal can add a traditional touch and elevate the flavours of the chutney, resulting in a more aromatic and delicious chutney.  

GETTI CHUTNEY RECIPE

    Overall, the ammikkal is a cherished kitchen tool in South Indian households, valued for its ability to grind ingredients to perfection and create authentic flavours in traditional recipes. While many households continue to rely on the traditional kitchen tool, the ammikkal, for grinding spices, herbs, chutneys, and masalas, there are alternatives for those who prefer convenience. Personally, I opt to use a blender (mixie) and stick to the smaller jar, adding only a small amount of water while grinding the ingredients for a Getti Chutney. This allows me to achieve a texture similar to the one obtained when using an ammikkal.  But whenever it comes to an Authentic Getti Chutney Recipe it is always best when ground in an Ammikkal.

    Getti Chutney holds a special place in Tamil cinema, often being featured in memorable scenes. One such instance is in the dialogue, "Annanukku Idli Getti Chutney Parcel!"  However, personally, I associate Getti Chutney with a delightful scene from the Tamil movie "Marina." In this scene, the protagonist mischievously decides to surprise his girlfriend on her birthday. Instead of conventional gifts, he playfully presents her with a box of Idli accompanied by a generous serving of Getti Chutney. This playful gesture showcases the characters' sense of humour and their shared love for South Indian cuisine. It adds a light-hearted touch to the film, highlighting the playful dynamics and their affinity for unique surprises in their relationship.

For more CHUTNEY RECIPES & CULINARY INSPIRATIONS, visit Essence of Life - Food

 

Cuisine - South India 
Recipe Type - Condiment: South Indian Chutney
Spice Level - Medium-High
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 3-4
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 5 - 10 Minutes

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TRADITIONAL & VERSATILE GETTI CHUTNEY RECIPE - 

SOUTH INDIAN CONDIMENT

GETTI CHUTNEY RECIPE

 

INGREDIENTS:

For Getti Chutney:

Grated Coconut - 1 Cup
Pottukadalai ( Roasted Gram Dhal) - 1/4 Cup
Green Chillies - 2–3 Nos.
Ginger - a small piece (Optional)
Curry Leaves - a Sprig
Salt - To Taste
Water - as Needed

 

METHOD:

• In a blender or mixer grinder, add the grated Coconut, Pottukadalai, Green Chillies, ginger & Curry Leaves.
• Add salt to taste.
• Blend the mixture until you achieve a coarse or slightly smooth consistency. 
• You can add a little water if required to facilitate blending.
• Taste the chutney and adjust the salt and spice level if needed.
• Transfer the Getti Chutney to a serving bowl or container.
• This particular Getti Chutney does not require tempering.
•  Serve the Getti Chutney with Idli, Dosa, Vadas, or any other South Indian dish of your choice.
  

GETTI CHUTNEY RECIPE

NOTES:

• The above method is how I usually make.
• I usually add more coconut than pottukadalai, if preferred can add more pottukadalai.
• For a Whiter Chutney, just grind it with 1 Green Chilly and avoid all other condiments while grinding.  Temper as usual and serve.
• Adjust the amount of Green Chillies according to your spice preference.
• Use a small piece of ginger /1 small garlic/ 1 shallot to enhance the flavour in the chutney.
• Sometimes, I love to add a few Curry Leaves / Coriander Leaves for a slight variation.

 

 

SORAKKAI CHUTNEY - BOTTLE GOURD CHUTNEY

    Discover a simple and nutritious chutney recipe made with Sorakkai, also known as Bottle Gourd. This South Indian Condiment alias Chutney is versatile and pairs perfectly with South Indian Breakfast dishes like Idli, Dosa, Uthappam, Paniyaram, and even rice. Get creative with this nutritious twist!

    The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, tomato, coconut, coriander leaves, and bottle gourd creates a flavourful base. Grinding them into a fine paste makes it smooth and consistent. The optional tempering of mustard seeds, urad dhal, dry red chillies, and coriander leaves adds a final touch of aroma and taste.

    Sneak in some healthy ingredients for your kids without revealing the ingredient. An Indian mother's clever strategy to introduce nutritious food to selective eaters in a wholesome manner.  Sometimes, children can be picky eaters, but finding creative ways to incorporate nutritious ingredients can be a good strategy. However, as they grow older, their taste buds become more discerning, and they may notice the difference in flavours.

    It's natural for kids to develop preferences and become more aware of the ingredients used in dishes. While it may be disappointing that they can now identify the ingredients added in a dish, it's also a sign of their growing maturity and awareness of different flavours.

    Nevertheless, I continue to explore and experiment with different chutney recipes. There are numerous variations you can try, and it's always exciting to discover new flavours and combinations. Who knows, maybe your kids will develop a liking for other chutneys or dishes as they continue to grow and explore different tastes!

SORAKKAI CHUTNEY - BOTTLE GOURD CHUTNEY

    Indulge in the flavoursome and nutritious sorakkai/bottle gourd chutney that complements a variety of South Indian dishes. This easy-to-make condiment can be enjoyed with Idli, Dosa, Uthappam, Paniyaram and rice. Sneak in some extra veggies without your kids even noticing. Try this recipe today and elevate your meals with this delightful chutney!

    It's wonderful to have versatile chutneys like this that can be paired with different dishes. Enjoy your homemade Sorakkai Chutney! 

 

For more CHUTNEY RECIPES & CULINARY INSPIRATIONS, visit Essence of Life - Food

 

Cuisine - South India 
Recipe Type - Condiment
Spice Level - Medium-High
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 5
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 5 Minutes
Cooking Time - 10-15 Minutes

 

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HOW TO COOK FLAVOURFUL SORAKKAI CHUTNEY RECIPE - HEALTHY BOTTLE GOURD CHUTNEY

SORAKKAI CHUTNEY - BOTTLE GOURD CHUTNEY

INGREDIENTS:

For Sorakkai/Bottle Gourd Chutney :

Oil - 2 Teaspoons
Black Gram Dhal/Urad Dhal - 1 Tablespoon
Bengal Gram Dhal - 1 Tablespoon
Dry Red Chillies/Green Chillies - 5 Nos.
Asafoetida - 1/8 Teaspoon
Garlic - 6 Cloves
Onion - 1 No
Tomato - 2 Nos.
Bottle Gourd - 1 1/2 Cup
Coconut - 1/4 Cup
Tamarind - 1/2 Teaspoon
Coriander Leaves - 1 Cup
Salt - To Taste

 

For Tempering (Optional):

Oil - 1 Teaspoon
Mustard Seeds - 1/2 Teaspoon
Black Gram Dhal/Urad Dhal - 1/4 Teaspoon
Bengal Gram Dhal - 1/4 Teaspoon
Dry Red Chillies - 2 Nos.
Curry Leaves - 1 Sprig

METHOD:

For Sorakkai/Bottle Gourd Chutney :

• Heat oil in a Pan, splutter Mustard Seeds on a medium flame.
• Add Black Gram Dhal/Urad Dhal & Bengal Gram Dhal to the above and fry on a very low flame for few minutes.
• The Dhals should turn into a golden yellow colour.
• Do not burn the ingredients which will alter the taste of the chutney.
• Add Dry Red Chillies and fry until it fluffs up.
• Sauté Garlic Cloves along with the above ingredients until aromatic.
• Add finely chopped Onions and sauté until onions turn translucent.
• Add chopped Tomatoes along with a dash of Tamarind.
• Meanwhile, Clean and chop the Bottle Gourd(Sorakkai) into small cubes (Do not remove the skin).
• Once the tomatoes turn soft and cooked, add chopped Bottle Gourd.
  
• Sprinkle 1/2 a Teaspoon of Salt and sauté it for a while on a medium flame.
• Add salt and give a quick stir.
• Lower the flame, cover and cook for about 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are well cooked.
• Add finely chopped Coriander Leaves to the above and cook for few seconds (until it wilts).
• Add the coarsely ground mixture and give a quick stir.
• Allow the Tomato & Coriander Chutney mixture to cool.
• Grind the ingredients to a smooth paste.
• For tempering, heat oil in a Pan, splutter Mustard Seeds on a medium flame.
• Add Black Gram Dhal/Urad Dhal & Bengal Gram Dhal to the above and fry on a very low flame for few minutes.
• Then add Dry Red Chillies cut into small pieces and finally add Curry Leaves and give a quick stir.
• Pour the tempering onto the Sorakkai Chutney and mix well.
  
• Serve Sorakkai Chutney along with Idli, Dosa, Uthappam, Paniyaram etc.,
• Goes well with Rice too.  Serve piping hot rice & Sorakkai Chutney with a drizzle of Ghee. 

SORAKKAI CHUTNEY - BOTTLE GOURD CHUTNEY

 

NOTES:

• Adjust the number of Dry Red Chillies to suit your spice level.
• Can substitute Red Chillies with Green Chillies.
  
• I have used normal Tomatoes in the recipes which are not tangy.
• So I added a dash of Tamarind for the required tanginess in this Chutney.
• If you are using Local Tomatoes/Nattu Thakkali can skip adding Tamarind or adjust accordingly.
• Add finely chopped Bottle gourd and cook until it turns soft.
• I usually do not peel the Bottle Gourds while using it in Poriyals, Kootu or Chutneys. The vegetable serves best with the peel too.
  

Bombay Mixture Recipe | Crispy Homemade Snack with Tea

"Bombay Mixture: A Taste of Nostalgia from Coimbatore"

    Craving a taste of home? For me, Bombay Mixture has always been more than just a snack—it’s a nostalgic reminder of Coimbatore's famous Nellai Periya Lala Sweet Shop. Growing up, we simply called it the "Mixture with Black Dha'l," often purchased alongside Oma Podi, another classic favourite.

Rediscovering the Name: Bombay Mixture

    As they say, necessity is the mother of invention. When you live far from home, certain cravings push you to recreate your favourite foods. In my case, this led me to search for my beloved snack. Surprisingly, I didn’t even know its proper name until recently—it's called Bombay Mixture!

Origin of the Name "Bombay Mixture"

    The snack is widely referred to as Bombay Mixture because of its association with the city of Mumbai (Bombay), a key trade and cultural hub in India. Mumbai's street food culture is rich, and many snacks originating from this city gained popularity across India. Bombay Mixture, being one such popular snack, eventually took on the city's name as a way to distinguish it from the many other "mixtures" found across different regions.

Mixture Snacks in Indian Tradition

    "Mixtures" of various ingredients like sev, fried dals, peanuts, and other tidbits are not unique to Mumbai. Different regions of India have their own variations—Chivda in Maharashtra, Bhujiya in Rajasthan, Chanachur in Bengal, and Namkeen in North India. The Bombay Mixture is likely an evolution of these traditional mixture snacks, with Mumbai's distinct twist—Masoor Dal, Oma Podi, and a mild spicing.

The Challenge of Finding Authentic Ingredients

    Living abroad, Indian sweets and snacks are hard to come by. Even when we do find them, they rarely match the flavours of home. So, I took it upon myself to perfect this snack, ensuring every bite took me back to Coimbatore.

    My first mission? Discovering the identity of the mysterious black dhal in the mixture. As always, Google came to the rescue—it was none other than whole Masoor Dhal!

The Ingredients Hunt: Masoor Dhal

    Armed with this newfound knowledge, the next challenge was sourcing the ingredients. Fortunately, during last year’s Diwali week in Kuala Lumpur, my daughter and I stumbled upon a few Indian stores. Lo and behold, there it was—whole Masoor Dhal! With that, the journey to recreate my favourite Bombay Mixture began.

Crunchy Bombay Mixture: Dive into this Delectable Diwali Snack!

Bombay Mixture Recipe | Crispy Homemade Snack with Tea

 

Bombay Mixture: A Simple, Flavourful Snack from South India

Bombay Mixture—a delightful combination of Sev  or Oma Podi and crispy, deep-fried whole Masoor Dhal—is the perfect light snack for any occasion. While many variations of Bombay Mixture call for adding green grams, peanuts, cashews, raisins, and other ingredients, my version stays true to the original from Nellai Lala Sweets in Coimbatore. This classic mix consists solely of Oma Podi and Masoor Dhal, mildly flavoured with black salt, and it's been my benchmark for years.

Why You’ll Love This Bombay Mixture

    If you’re in the mood for a snack that’s not too heavy but still packs a satisfying crunch, Bombay Mixture is ideal. It’s perfect for tea-time or as a Norukkutheeni (a light nibble) snack, especially if you prefer a snack that's easy to make and not overly spicy.

    But don’t stop there! You can also tweak this recipe by adding Kara Boondi, fried peanuts, cashews, raisins, curry leaves, and a variety of spices like chilli powder and asafoetida for a spicier, South Indian-style Mixture. Either way, it’s a must-have addition to your Diwali Bakshanam list!

Step-by-step Guide to make the Perfect Bombay Mixture

Bombay Mixture Recipe | Crispy Homemade Snack with Tea

 

Method:

For Sev/Omapodi

• Dry Roast Carom Seeds: Dry roast the Carom Seeds/Ajwain on a very low flame for a few minutes to warm them up.
• Soak Seeds: Clean, wash, and soak the roasted Carom Seeds in ample water for about 2 hours.
• Blend: Add the soaked Carom Seeds to a small blender jar and give a quick whisk. Then, add 1/4 cup of water and grind it into a smooth paste.o a smooth paste.
• Filter: Filter the paste and set it aside.
  
• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine all the dry ingredients and mix well.
• Melt Butter: Melt the butter and pour hot butter into the dry mixture, mixing thoroughly.
• Heat Oil: Heat oil and pour it into the mixture.
  
• Knead Dough: Add a little water at a time, kneading it into a soft but stiff dough.
• Prepare the Sev Press: Grease the Sev press with the appropriate attachment, fill it with the dough, and close it.
• Fry the Sev: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, hold the Sev press above the oil and press the handle to drop thin strands of Omapodi/Sev directly into the oil, making a whole circular motion. Stop as you complete one circle. Oil should be moderately hot while dropping the Omapodi/Sev Strands into it.
  
• Deep-fry: Deep-fry until the Sev turns golden brown and the sizzling sound diminishes. Remove with slotted spoons and drain on absorbent paper.
• Cool Down: Allow the Sev to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before storing/ making Bombay Mixture.

 

    So, for the recent reminiscence, Arisi Upma - which is from my long forgotten collection of recipes from my college days.  Just what I needed was to adjust the Rice : Water Ratio as perfect as for Arisi Upma.    Rice/Arisi Upma is one of the popular tiffin items in a Brahmin household. This is a simple recipe made with coarsely ground rice which is called as NOI or KURUNAI ARISI. The only work in terms of this tiffin item is soaking the raw rice, and then drying it indoor for a few hours until all the moist is gone, then pulsing it in a dry mixer grinder jar into a coarse rice powder a.k.a kurunai like texture.  Once you have the rice kurunai(small tit bits), then the job gets easier.

    For Arisi Upma, add a bit of Peppercorns, Cumin and Tuvar dhal before grinding it coarsely.  This gives out a wonderful flavour to the dish.  Then the Rice mixture is cooked along with seasoning until 1/2 cooked and then again it is cooked for about 3-4 whistles in a pressure cooker.  This is the main trick which results in a perfectly textured soft Arisi Upma.

     Arisi Upma, is an easy and tasty breakfast/dinner dish popular in a Tamil Brahmin household.  Some prepare the same adding a bit of extra Dhal(Tuvar/Moong Dhal) to it. As such each household has a unique recipe of their own and this is how I make.  Arisi Upma goes well with tangy curries like Puli Kos, Brinjal Gothsu, Puli Kuzhambu or simply serve it with your choice of Chutney or Sambar.  

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Cuisine : South Indian
Course : Main Course
Difficulty : Medium
Serves : 3-4
Yields : 15 Nos.
Author : SM

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HOW TO MAKE RICE / ARISI UPMA

 

ARISI UPMA - RICE UPMA

INGREDIENTS:

For Grinding:

Raw Rice - 1 Cup
Cumin Seeds - 1 Teaspoon
Peppercorns - 3/4 Teaspoon
Tuvar Dhal - 11/2 Teaspoon

For Arisi Upma:

Gingelly Oil - 2 Tablespoon
Mustard Seeds - 1 Teaspoon
Black Gram Dhal - 1 Teaspoon
Bengal Gram Dhal - 1 Teaspoon
Peppercorns - 3/4 Teaspoon
Asafoetida Powder - 1/2 Teaspoon
Dry Red Chillies - 2 -3 No's
Green Chillies - 1 No
Curry Leaves - a Sprig
Coconut - 1 Cup
Salt - To taste
Water -  23/4 Cup
Ghee - 2 Teaspoon

 

 

To make Noi Arisi:

• Soak the raw rice for 15 mins in water. 
• After 15 mins, drain the water and spread the rice in a clean kitchen towel and allow it to dry completely. 
• Can dry the Rice indoor under a fan.
• Once the rice is dry, add Cumin Seeds, 3/4 Teaspoon Peppercorns & Tuvar Dhal along with the rice & then grind it into a coarse powder in a dry mixer grinder jar.  
• Just pulse it once or twice. It should not be ground into a fine powder.
• Noi Arisi seasoned with spices is ready for making Arisi Upma.

 

ARISI UPMA - RICE UPMA