INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

• Boil the water and allow it to cool.
• Clean & Wash the Mangoes and allow them to dry on a clean kitchen towel.
• Wipe them off with a clean cloth to get rid of any extra wetness.
• Then Cut the Mangoes into slices.
  
• Take a clean and dry Bottle or Bharani (Porcelain Jar).
• Put some salt at the bottom of the Jar.
• Put few Mango slices over it.
• Again, put some salt and top it up with Mango slices.
• Follow the suit until all the mangoes are salted.
• Close the lid of the jar and mix well, until the mangoes are well coated with salt.
• Pour warm water into the jar and mix well.
• Tightly close the jar and keep it aside in a dry & dark place for a few weeks.
• Stir the mangoes every two days, so that the essence of mangoes are well infused into the brine.
• Initially, the mango slices would float over the brine, but gradually they absorb the brine and double their size.
• Sliced Raw Mangoes will be ready within a few weeks time.
• These can be stored in a dry and dark place.
• In humid climates, it is advisable to keep them refrigerated to avoid spoilage.
  

HOW TO PRESERVE RAW MANGOES

NOTES:

• Can preserve tender Mangoes(Kanni Manga/Kadu Mangai) in the same manner. 
• Even whole raw Mangoes can be preserved in brine using the same method.  But the pickling time would be about 2-3 months or more, depending on the size of the raw mangoes used for preserving.
  
• This Brine preserved Tender Mangoes or Cut Mangoes make tasty and unique, briny & spiced pickles, which taste awesome with curd rice.
• Avoid using steel/aluminium/copper container for preserving the mangoes, as they tend to react with the acidic nature of salt and mangoes.
• A suitable method is to store them in clean and dry sterilized Glass/Ceramic/Porcelain Jars.
• Always use clean & dry spoons while handling these preserved mangoes. 
• Wet jars/spoon can spoil the pickle as the moisture in them helps in the growth of Fungus and that would spoil the mangoes. 
• If stored properly, these preserved mangoes can last for a year or so.
• Can use these preserved mangoes to prepare Uppu Manga Chalichathu, Manga Chammanthi, Kannimanga Achar, Mango Pickles or in Curries. (Just use the Mangoes and adjust the amount of salt in the recipe).

INSTANT NARANGA ACHAR - INSTANT LIME PICKLE

HOW TO MAKE INSTANT NARANGA ACHAR - INSTANT LIME PICKLE

INSTANT NARANGA ACHAR - INSTANT LIME PICKLE

INGREDIENTS :

METHOD :

• Wash the Lime and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
• Steam the Lime on a high flame for about 5-7 minutes, lower the flame and steam cook for another 15-20 minutes.
• Switch off the flame and allow the Lime to cool.
• Once cooled, Cut the Lime to 8 pieces. Lime tends to ooze out the juice while cutting.
• Reserve the Lime Juice in a separate bowl.
• Add Salt to the Lime Pieces and leave it aside for an hour or two.
• Dry roast the Fenugreek Seeds, cool and powder it.
• Heat the Gingelly Oil in a pan.
• Splutter the Mustard Seeds, lower the flame, then add Asafoetida Powder and Curry Leaves.
• Immediately add the steam cooked Lime Pieces and saute it on a low flame for a few minutes until it becomes soft.
• Add Turmeric Powder, Red Chilli Powder, roasted Fenugreek Powder, to the above and mix well.
• Add melted Jaggery to the above.
• Pour in the reserved Lime Juice and give a quick stir.
• Cook this is on a low flame until oil separates from the pickle.
• Switch off the flame and allow the Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar to cool down.
• Finally, add Vinegar to the Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar and mix well.
• Can serve this Pickle immediately.

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NOTES :

• Adjust the amount of Salt and Chilli powder as per your taste preference.
• Pour some extra oil if you feel the Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar is dry.
• More oil, more storage period. 
• Dry roasting the fenugreek seeds helps to preserve the pickle as well as gives a nice flavour.
• Jaggery gives a slight sweetness to the pickle and also balances the sourness. (adding it is truly optional).
• Can serve this Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar immediately. 
• Avoid using steel/aluminium/copper containers for storing the pickles, as they tend to react with the acidic nature of salt and the Lime.
• Store them in clean and dry Porcelain/Glass/Ceramic Jars.
• Always use clean & dry spoons(preferably wooden spoons) for the pickle.
• Wet Jars/spoons can spoil the pickles as the moisture in them helps in the growth of Fungus.
• If you feel that extra oil should be added, once the pickle is made, Heat the Sesame Oil, cool it and then pour it over the pickle.
• Allow it to cool completely before storing it into sterilized bottles. 
• Refrigerate the Instant Lime Pickle/ Instant Naranga Achar.  It can stay good even with less oil and preservatives. 
• If stored properly, the pickle can last for a year or so.

RAW MANGO THOKKU - MANGAI THOKKU

• Kerala Kadu Manga Achar
• Avakkai Mango Pickle &
• Mangai Thokku

HOW TO MAKE RAW MANGO THOKKU - MANGAI THOKKU

INGREDIENTS :

For Raw Mango Thokku - Mangai Thokku :

To Dry Roast & Grind:

METHOD :

• Dry roast the Fenugreek Seeds on a very low flame until it splutters.
• Cool and powder it.
• Wash, Peel and grate the Raw Mangoes and keep it aside.
• Heat the Sesame Oil in a pan.
• Splutter the Mustard Seeds, lower the flame, then add Asafoetida Powder and Curry Leaves.
• Immediately add the grated Raw Mangoes and saute it on a low flame until it becomes soft & translucent.
• Add Salt, Turmeric Powder, Red Chilli Powder, roasted Fenugreek Powder, to the above and mix well.
• Add Jaggery to the above.
• Cook this is on a low flame until oil separates from the pickle.
• Switch off the flame and allow the Raw Mango Thokku to cool down.
• Store it in clean & dry airtight bottles.

NOTES :

• Adjust the amount of Salt and Chilli powder as per your taste preference.
• Pour some extra oil if you feel the Mango Thokku is dry.
• More oil, more storage period. 
• Dry roasting the fenugreek seeds helps to preserve the pickle as well as gives a nice flavour.
• Jaggery gives a slight sweetness to the pickle and also balances the sourness. (adding it is truly optional).
• Avoid using steel/aluminium/copper containers for storing the pickles, as they tend to react with the acidic nature of salt and the Lemon.
• Store the Raw Mango Thokku in clean and dry Porcelain/Glass/Ceramic Jars.
• Always use clean & dry spoons(preferably wooden spoons) for the pickle.
• Wet Jars/spoons can spoil the pickles as the moisture in them helps in the growth of Fungus.
• If you feel that extra oil should be added, once the pickle is made, Heat the Sesame Oil, cool it and then pour it over the pickle.
• Allow it to cool completely before storing it into sterilized bottles. 
• Refrigerate the Raw Mango Thokku.  It can stay good even with less oil and preservatives. 
• If stored properly, Raw Mango Thokku can last for a year or so.

Sacred Simplicity: The Lent Food of Kerala Christians

Faith & Tradition: Kerala Christian Lent Recipes to Honour the Season

Lent Food of Kerala Christians

    Lent is the six-week period leading up to Easter, starting on Ash Wednesday and concluding on Easter Sunday. While Lent is a 40-day observance, there are technically 46 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter. This period holds immense significance for Christians worldwide, particularly within Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions. Unlike Advent, which is a season of joy and anticipation, Lent is a time of solemn observance, fasting, and spiritual preparation for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

KERALA SADHYA VIBHAVANGAL

"Sadhya Vibhavangal: Crafting the Ultimate Onam Feast"

Experience the Essence of Kerala with a Complete Sadhya

    Onam is around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a traditional Kerala Sadhya? This grand feast, brimming with authentic flavours and cultural richness, is a must-have during festive celebrations like Onam and Vishu. But don’t stop there! Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or just a special day, Sadhya is a culinary delight worth indulging in any time of the year.

Traditional and Nutritious Pazhangkanji/Pazhaya Sadham/Neeragaram

Neeragaram: The Ancient Fermented Rice Breakfast 

Traditional and Nutritious Pazhangkanji/Pazhaya Sadham/Neeragaram

    Uppu Karuvadu, Oora Vacha Soru—a lyric from a popular Tamil movie song—refers to the traditional dish of soaked and fermented leftover rice known as Pazhankanji, Pazhaya Sadham, or Neeragaram. This simple yet nutritious dish is a staple in South Indian cuisine, celebrated for its nutritional benefits, health-boosting properties, and refreshing taste.

The Nutritional Power of Fermented Rice

    Pazhankanji is made by soaking cooked rice in water overnight, allowing it to ferment mildly. This fermentation process not only enhances the flavour and taste, but also significantly boosts the nutritional value. Adding thick curd or yogurt and a pinch of salt further enriches the dish, making it a wholesome breakfast option. A sprinkle of crushed shallots and bird's eye chillies (Kanthari Mulagu) adds seasonal flavours and additional health benefits.

From Peasants to Royals: The Journey of Pazhankanji

    Originally created to prevent food wastage in the absence of refrigeration, Pazhankanji became a vital breakfast for hard-working peasants. It provided sustained energy and kept them full until the next meal. However, this humble dish soon transcended social boundaries, captivating the taste buds of both royals and common folk alike. Revered as 'Amrut' (nectar) by the great Malayalam poet Kunjan Nambiar, Pazhankanji is cherished for its cooling properties and refreshing nature.

The Traditional Preparation of Neeragaram

    To prepare Pazhankanji, soak leftover rice in ample water in an earthen pot overnight. The next morning, add curd, crushed shallots, bird's eye chillies, a small piece of ginger, and a few curry leaves. Gently mash the ingredients with a wooden ladle or your hands to create a cool, refreshing, and nutritious breakfast packed with health benefits.

Health Benefits of Pazhankanji

    The cooling nature of Pazhankanji soothes the body and aids digestion. I have been making this dish for over 18 years, initially for my husband to help alleviate the symptoms of haemorrhoids. Many have suggested Pazhankanji as an effective home remedy for this condition. Ingredients like shallots and bird's eye chillies heal internal wounds, ginger aids digestion, and curry leaves help reduce high blood pressure. Today, I prepare this dish at least 3–4 times a week, and even my husband's Malay colleagues have embraced it.

A Memorable Scene from Kalipattam

    I can never forget the dialogue delivered by actor Mohanlal in the Malayalam movie 'Kalipattam'. He describes the perfect preparation: "Take the Rose Chambavu Rice in a wide porcelain bowl, pour some thick curd into it. Mash it up... mash it up... Add some Pazhuratha Manga Curry cooked with slit green chillies (ripe mango curry), mix it, and gobble it up... You can feel your system cooling down. It’s heavenly indeed." He concludes with, "ithu muzhuvanum Proteinna" (It's filled with protein). Every time I watch the movie, his description makes me crave this delicious Pazhankanji.

Discover more Kanji (Congee) Recipes for a nutritious and stomach-soothing experience. Click here...

How to Make Neeragaram - Traditional Pazhaya Sadham (Pazhankanji)

    Neeragaram, also known as Pazhaya Sadham or Pazhankanji, is a classic South Indian fermented rice dish made from leftover rice. This ancient Kerala breakfast is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients and health benefits. Follow this simple recipe to prepare this traditional delicacy.

Ingredients

For Pazhangkanji/Neeragaram:

Method

Preparing the Base

• In a wide bowl, preferably an earthen pot, add the leftover cooked rice.
• Pour in 1 to 1 1/2 cups of water at room temperature.

Fermentation

• Cover the pot and leave it aside overnight. 
• This allows the rice to ferment, transforming it into a nutritious and flavourful dish.

Adding Yogurt

• The next morning, add a cup of thick yogurt/curd to the rice and water mixture.
• This could be done the next day morning, if you prefer a fresh tasting neeragaram.
• Some prefer to add curd while soaking the rice in water.  This step aids in the fermentation process, enhancing the dish's flavour and nutritional value.

Seasoning

• Sprinkle salt to taste. 
• Add finely chopped or slightly crushed shallots, bird’s-eye chillies, ginger, and curry leaves.

Serving

• The next morning, mash the ingredients with a wooden ladle or your hands. 
• This ensures all the flavours meld together perfectly.

Serving Suggestions:

    Pazhankanji pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments such as pickles, chammanthi (coconut chutney), puzhukku (mashed vegetables), steamed tapioca, fish curry (preferably a day old), mango curry, or any thoran (stir-fried vegetables). For dried fish enthusiasts, a side of dry fish curry or fry elevates the dish to another level. You can also enjoy it plain, relishing the cooling sensation as it moves through your digestive system.

Food as Medicine: The Benefits of Neeragaram (Pazhaya Sadham/Pazhankanji)

    Day-old fermented rice, known as Neeragaram, Pazhaya Sadham, or Pazhankanji, is both delicious and nutritious.

• Enhanced Nutrients: Fermentation increases nutrient and energy content.
• Rich in Minerals: Contains potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, and selenium, beneficial for bones.
• Prevents Hypertension: Helps prevent high blood pressure.
• Cancer Prevention: Antioxidants believed to prevent cancer.
• Vitamin-Rich: High in Vitamin B6 and B12.
• Healthy Probiotics: Curd/yogurt adds probiotics for gut health.
• Digestive Aid: Easily digestible, controls acidity, prevents ulcers, and eases constipation.
• Supports Lactation: Beneficial for lactating mothers.

*Disclaimer

    Please remember, these treatment options are only meant as guidelines and in no way replace the advice or treatment provided by your medical practitioner. It is always good to seek the advice of your physician, homeopath, naturopath, or herbalist for professional advice in any matter related to your health. This article is for informational purposes only.

"Delight Your Senses with Kadu Manga Achar: The Ultimate Tangy Mango Pickle for Your Onam Sadhya"

For more PICKLE RECIPES, Click here...

 "The Perfect Pickle: Kadu Manga Achar - A Burst of Flavour from God's Own Country!" 

INGREDIENTS:

To mix:

For Kadumanga Achar:

To Dry Roast & Powder:

METHOD :

• Dice the mangoes into small pieces and mix them with 3 teaspoons of salt until well combined. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavours to develop.
• In a dry pan, gently roast the fenugreek seeds on a low flame until they start spluttering. Grind the roasted seeds to a fine powder.
• Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan and add mustard seeds. Once they start spluttering, add chopped green chillies, ginger, curry leaves, and garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes.
• In a separate bowl, prepare a thick paste by combining turmeric powder, red chilli powder, fenugreek powder, and ½ cup water.
• Add the prepared paste to the pan and cook for a few minutes. Then, add asafoetida, vinegar, and sugar. Mix everything well.
• Add the cut mango pieces along with the brine and ensure they are thoroughly coated. Adjust the salt according to your taste preference.
• Allow the Kadumanga Achar to cool completely before transferring it to sterilized glass bottles. It can also be stored in the refrigerator.

For more authentic Recipes from Kerala - God's Own Country, click here

Notes:

• Adjust the amount of salt and chilli powder based on your taste preference.
• If the pickle appears dry, you can pour some extra oil to moisten it.
• The more oil you use, the longer the pickle can be stored.
• Feel free to add more garlic to the pickle if desired.
• Dry roasting the fenugreek seeds not only adds flavour but also helps in preserving the pickle.
• Sugar can be added for a slight touch of sweetness and to balance the sourness, but it's optional.
• Avoid using steel, aluminium, or copper containers as they can react with the acidic nature of the pickle. Instead, use clean and dry porcelain, glass, or ceramic jars.
• Always use clean and dry spoons, preferably wooden spoons, to avoid moisture and fungal growth.
• Allow the pickle to cool completely before storing it in sterilized bottles.
• It's recommended to refrigerate the pickle, which can stay good even with less oil and preservatives.
• If you want to add extra oil, heat sesame oil, cool it, and then pour it over the pickle.
• When stored properly, the pickle can last for about a year or longer