Poondu Kuzhambu – Kuzhambu Varieties

This poondu kuzhambu is an all time favourite in my family. There are many versions of poondu kuzhambu and this is an easy one without coconut or any grinding. This stores well making it an ideal recipe for bachelors and working women.(See tips) Do try my Puzhi Kuzhambu recipe too.

Now to the recipe..

Poondu Kuzhambu Ingredients:

• Garlic pods – 15 to 20
• Onion – 1
• Tomato – 1
• Tamarind paste – 1 tsp
• Drumstick pieces – 7 to 8 (optional)
• Chilli powder – 1 tsp
• Coriander powder – 1 tbsp
• Salt – as needed
• Oil – 3 tbsp (preferably gingely oil)
• Curry leaves – 1 sprig
• Mustard – 1 tsp
• Fenugreek seeds – 1/8th spoon

Method:

• Heat a pan with oil and fry the garlic pods(Reserve 6 to 7 garlic pods for crushing) until the raw smell goes off and they are slightly brown in colour. Keep this aside. In the same oil temper with mustard & fenugreek seeds. Add chopped onions and fry until transparent.

• Meanwhile crush the reserved garlic coarsely and add this to the onions. Saute until raw smell goes off. To this add chopped tomatoes, curry leaves followed by salt, chilli powder & coriander powder and mix.

• Cook the tomatoes until mushy and oil oozes out. Add tamarind extract and mix. Add drumstick pieces and cook in medium flame until they are soft. Finally add the fried garlic to this and boil for a few mins or until u get the required consistency.

Flavourful poondu kuzhambu is ready. Serve it hot with steamed rice or even idli/dosa.

Tips:

1. Adding drumstick is purely optional. Garlic along with drumstick is a very good combo so I prefer my poondu kuzhambu this way.
2. U can add brinjal too.
3. Gingely oil tastes best for this kuzhambu, If not available can substitute with refined oil.
4. For bachelors: U can make this kuzhambu over the weekend and use it for busy week days. If u need to store DO NOT ADD DRUMSTICK and handle carefully. Would advise refrigeration.

– By Sundari Nathan