Authentic Tamil Nadu Kancheepuram Poondu Thokku with Steamed Ponni Rice
A fiery and aromatic South Indian pickle-like delicacy bursting with the robust flavor of fresh garlic and tangy tamarind. This traditional condiment transforms a simple bowl of rice into an unforgettable feast.
45min
Total Time
4
Servings
Tamil Nadu
Cuisine
Recipe
1
Heat sesame oil in a heavy-bottomed pan and splutter mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds.
2
Add dried red chillies and fresh curry leaves, allowing them to crisp up in the oil.
3
Add the peeled garlic cloves and sauté them on medium heat until they turn lightly golden and tender.
4
Pour in the extracted tamarind juice, then add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, asafoetida, and salt.
5
Mix well and simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil separates from the garlic masala.
6
Stir in the jaggery powder to balance the tanginess and cook for another five minutes until thick.
7
Remove from heat and serve warm alongside steamed Ponni rice and a crisp appalam.
Ingredients
2 cups peeled garlic cloves
1 large lemon-sized ball of tamarind, soaked and extracted
1/4 cup sesame oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp fenugreek seeds
2 sprigs fresh curry leaves
4 dried red chillies
2 tbsp Kashmiri red chilli powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp asafoetida (hing)
Salt to taste
1 tsp jaggery powder
*This AI-generated recipe may contain inaccuracies.