"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

Kerala Pothi Choru - A Classic Banana Leaf Takeaway Lunch

Customizing Your Pothi Choru: The Versatility of a Kerala Packed Lunch

A Flexible Feast - Tailoring Your Pothi Choru: The beauty of Pothi Choru lies in its versatility. The number and type of dishes included can vary each time you prepare it. Whether you prefer a simple or elaborate meal, you can easily customize the variety and quantity of dishes to suit your taste and convenience. The essence of Pothi Choru is in choosing what you love to eat, making it a personalized and satisfying experience.

Authentic Kerala Flavours in Every Bite: I’ve taken care to include the most traditional and authentic Kerala dishes in this Pothi Choru, prepared in the best way possible to capture the essence of this beloved meal.

Key Elements of an Authentic Pothi Choru The speciality of this Kerala-style packed lunch lies in its essential components:

• Kerala Matta Rice: The heart of Pothi Choru is the Kerala Matta Rice, a rose-coloured, fibre-rich rice grown in Kerala. Known for its mild nutty flavour, this rice is a staple in traditional Kerala cuisine.
• Coconut Oil: All the dishes in this Pothi Choru are cooked in pure coconut oil, enhancing the authenticity and delivering the true taste of Kerala.
• Banana Leaf Aroma: The unique flavour and aroma of the burnt banana leaves infuse the meal, providing not only a distinctive taste but also offering hidden medicinal benefits.

The True Essence of Kerala Cuisine Every aspect of this preparation delivers a genuine experience of ‘Nadan Bakshanam’ (traditional food) from God’s Own Country, Kerala, served in the most authentic way.

Explore More traditonal Recipes from God’s Own Country – Kerala here...

Cuisine: Kerala

    This Pothi Choru menu features Kerala Rose Matta Rice, an indigenous rice variety native to Kerala, South India. Known for its high fibre content and low Glycaemic Index, Kerala Matta Rice stands out with its distinct nutty aroma, imparting a unique flavour to every dish. This rice is a staple in Kerala households and an essential component of a traditional Kerala Sadhya (banquet), making it a must-have in any authentic Pothi Choru.

Rice Options for Pothi Choru

While Kerala Matta Rice is the traditional choice, you can also use Parboiled Rice, Raw Rice, or Basmati Rice based on availability and preference. Flexibility is key when preparing Pothi Choru, so feel free to select the rice variety that best suits your needs.

Learn How to Cook Different Varieties of Rice.  For detailed instructions on How to cook various Types of Rice, click here...

 

Kerala Kadu Manga Achar - The Essential Pickle for Pothi Choru

      A traditional Kerala meal is incomplete without a tangy and spicy pickle, and Kadu Manga Achar is the perfect choice. This authentic Kerala-style raw mango pickle, known as Kadu Manga Achar, is made using fresh raw mangoes, garlic, chillies, ginger, and fragrant curry leaves. The bold flavours of this pickle add a delightful punch to the Pothi Choru, making each bite more enjoyable.

Pickle Variety for Pothi Choru:

     While Kadu Manga Achar is a traditional favourite, feel free to choose your preferred pickle to complement your Pothi Choru. Whether it’s Lemon Pickle, Lime Pickle, or another variety, the choice is yours.

      For more Delicious and Authentic Pickle Recipes, click here...

Condiment/Chutney: Chuttaracha Thenga Chammanthi

    

Chuttaracha Thenga Chammanthi is a rich and flavourful chutney, also known as Chammanthi, that’s a must-have in traditional Kerala meals. Made with roasted coconuts, shallots, dry red chillies, and curry leaves, this thick chutney is seasoned perfectly with tamarind and salt. The unique smoky flavour from the roasted coconut and the blend of spices make this Chammanthi an irresistible accompaniment to your Pothi Choru.

Choosing Your Condiment for Pothi Choru

        While Chuttaracha Thenga Chammanthi is a traditional favourite, you can also opt for other authentic Kerala condiments such as Pacha Manga Chammanthi (raw mango chutney), Chemmeen Podi (dried prawn powder), Inji Curry (ginger curry), or Mulagu Chalichathu (spicy chilli chutney). Each adds a unique flavour to your meal.

Explore More Condiment & Chutney Recipes, Discover more Traditional Condiment and Chutney recipes to enhance your Pothi Choru experience, Click here...

 

Cabbage Thoran– A Classic Kerala Stir-Fry

    Cabbage Thoran is a quintessential Kerala dish, a simple yet flavourful stir-fry that perfectly complements the Pothi Choru menu. Made with finely chopped cabbage, this dish is lightly seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture. The mild seasoning allows the freshness of the cabbage to shine, making it a delightful side dish.

Customizing Your Thoran
    While Cabbage Thoran is a popular choice, you can personalize your Pothi Choru by choosing other traditional Kerala stir-fries like Thoran, Poriyal or Mezhukkupuratti. These variations offer a range of flavours, from the crunchiness of stir-fried beans to the richness of sautéed root vegetables, each adding its unique touch to your meal.

    Explore a variety of traditonal Kerala style Stir-fries - Thoran, Poriyal & Mezhukkupuratti Recipes to enrich your Pothi Choru, here...

Authentic Kerala Prawn Roast – Kallu Shappu Style

Experience the fiery flavours of Kerala's local toddy shops with this Prawn Roast recipe, prepared in the iconic Kallu Shappu style. This dish is a perfect blend of succulent prawns cooked in a rich mixture of caramelized onions, a medley of spices, and aromatic coconut oil. The slow roasting process enhances the deep, robust flavours, making it an irresistible addition to your Pothi Choru.

Customizing Your Prawn Dish
While this spicy prawn roast is a classic, you can explore other delicious variations such as Chemmeen Ularthiyathu or Chemmeen Varattiyathu or Nadan Chemmeen Roast to suit your taste. Each dish offers a unique blend of flavours that beautifully complements the traditional Kerala meal.

Discover More Prawn Recipes, Explore a wide range of Prawn and Shrimp Recipes to find the perfect match for your meal. Click here...

 

Authentic Kerala Fish Curry with Raw Mangoes

Discover the vibrant flavours of Kerala Fish Curry with this traditional recipe featuring fresh raw mangoes and creamy coconut milk. This dish combines tender fish pieces with a tangy mango kick, creating a rich and satisfying curry that perfectly complements the Pothi Choru menu.

Customizing Your Fish Curry

    While this recipe highlights fish curry with raw mangoes, you can also enjoy other Kerala-style fish curries such as Meen Thilappichathu, Meen Vattichathu, Meen Mulakittathu, Alleppey Meen Curry, Palakkadan Meen Puli or Chemmeen Manga Curry. Each variant offers unique flavours and textures, allowing you to tailor your meal to your preferences.

      For more delightful  collection of Fish and Prawn Curry Recipes from Kerala to find the perfect addition to your Pothi Choru, Click here...

     Enjoy a classic Kerala Style Fish Fry with this simple yet flavourful recipe. Marinated fish fillets are shallow-fried in aromatic coconut oil, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. This dish is a perfect accompaniment to your Pothi Choru menu, adding a delightful crunch and rich taste. 

Customizing Your Fish Fry

    This traditional fish fry recipe can be tailored to suit your taste. Experiment with different marinades and spices to create variations that match your preferences. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this recipe is versatile and always delicious.

      Explore a wide collection of Fish Fry Recipes to find additional delicious options and cooking tips, here...

 

Simple & Delicious Kerala Style Omelette

    

       Enjoy a classic Kerala Style Omelette with this easy recipe featuring whisked eggs combined with onions, green chillies, and seasoned with salt and pepper. The omelette is shallow-fried in aromatic coconut oil, enhancing its flavour and giving it a crispy texture that's perfect for your Pothi Choru menu.

Customizing Your Omelette

       Feel free to add your favourite ingredients to this basic omelette recipe. Whether you prefer extra vegetables, or spices, this versatile dish can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

      Looking for more delicious egg recipes? Discover a wide collection of Egg Recipes to find additional ideas and cooking tips, here...

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Packing Authentic Kerala Pothi Choru

Pothi Choru - Kerala's Traditional Banana Leaf Lunch Pack

Preparing the Banana Leaves

• Begin by thoroughly washing the banana leaves to remove any dirt.
• Carefully slice off the centre rib from the underside of the leaf to make it more flexible.
• Gently burn the banana leaves over direct flame, ensuring they wilt slightly without burning. This makes the leaves easier to handle and prevents them from breaking during packaging.

Setting Up the Packaging Base

• Spread a newspaper or packing paper on a flat surface.
• Place the wilted banana leaf on top of the paper.

Assembling the Pothi Choru

• Serve a scoop of Kerala Matta Rice at the centre of the leaf.
• Pour a portion of Fish Curry, including a piece of fish and mango, over the rice—just enough to mix with the rice.
• Place a piece of Fish Fry at one corner of the rice.
• Add a few spoonfuls of Prawn Roast next to the fish fry.
• Follow with a spoonful of Chuttaracha Thenga Chammanthi, a smidgen of Kadu Manga Achar, and a few tablespoons of Cabbage Thoran.
• Place the Omelette alongside the other dishes.

Wrapping the Pothi Choru

• Carefully fold the banana leaf around the rice and dishes from all four sides, tucking it in tightly to create a neat packet.
• Wrap the newspaper or packing paper around the folded banana leaf.
• Secure the package tightly with kitchen twine or Vazha Naaru (thread from a banana tree).

The Pothi Choru Experience

    Once all the dishes are packed, allow the Pothi Choru to rest for a few hours. When you finally unwrap it, the combined aroma of the dishes and the burnt banana leaf will be a sensory delight. The rich flavours of the traditional 'Nadan Bakshanam' cooked in coconut oil infuse into the rice, creating a taste experience that’s truly unique. Whether you're packing this for travel, work, or just enjoying it at home, Pothi Choru is a culinary tradition worth savouring.

Indulge in Nostalgia

    Enjoy the Pothi Choru, and let the nostalgic aromas transport you to sweet food memories. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a simple meal at home, Pothi Choru offers a taste of Kerala's rich culinary heritage. Make this eco-friendly packaged lunch a part of your culinary repertoire and experience the flavours of God's Own Country in every bite!

Try This Nostalgic Pothi Choru Recipe Today!

     If this Pothi Choru recipe has taken you on a trip down memory lane, I’d love to hear all about it! Whether it's the joy of unwrapping the banana leaf or the burst of flavours that brought back childhood memories, your experience is precious. Share your thoughts and any personal twists you’ve added in the comments below—your stories make this journey worthwhile!

    Want to keep the tradition alive in your kitchen? Subscribe to ‘Essence of Life – Food’ and get a regular dose of nostalgic recipes delivered straight to your inbox. Let’s keep these flavours alive together!

    Lastly, don’t forget to rate this recipe and leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others but also inspires me to bring you more of these treasured recipes. Happy cooking!

SM

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.

For more recipes from GODS OWN COUNTRY - KERALA  click here...

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.

Traditional and Nutritious Pazhangkanji/Pazhaya Sadham/Neeragaram

Neeragaram: The Ancient Fermented Rice Breakfast of Kerala

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.

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.