Authentic Tamil Nadu Chettinad Poondu Poondu Kolambu with Warm Steamed Ponni Rice
A fiery and aromatic South Indian specialty featuring whole garlic cloves simmered in a tangy tamarind and shallot gravy. Served hot with fluffy steamed rice, this comforting dish is rich in bold spices and traditional flavors.
45min
Total Time
4
Servings
Tamil Nadu Chettinad
Cuisine
Recipe
1
Heat sesame oil in a traditional clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2
Add mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds, allowing them to splutter.
3
Add the curry leaves, whole garlic cloves, and shallots, sautéing until translucent and golden.
4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
5
Add the Chettinad kolambu powder, turmeric powder, and salt, mixing well for a minute.
6
Pour in the extracted tamarind juice and water, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil.
7
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the oil separates on top.
8
Serve hot alongside freshly steamed Ponni rice and a crisp appalam.
Ingredients
20 peeled whole garlic cloves
10 small shallots, peeled and halved
1 lemon-sized ball of tamarind, soaked and extracted
2 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
1 sprig fresh curry leaves
2 tablespoons Chettinad kolambu powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
2 cups water
*This AI-generated recipe may contain inaccuracies.