Monthly Archives: October 2013

Black chickpeas or kala chana sundal

Navaratri means ‘nine nights’ and is marked with Hindu women praying to Goddess Durga. They observe fast during these entire nine days. Various types of snacks are prepared and distributed among women and children after prayers. Black chickpeas or kala chana sundal is a snack prepared especially during Navaratri festival as prasadam to Goddess Durga. Black chickpeas sundal is also called as kondakadalai sundal in Tamil Nadu. Black chickpeas sundal is a simple South Indian style snack recipe made with black chickpeas, red chillies, curry leaves, spices and grated coconut. It can also be had as an evening snack as black chickpeas are rich in proteins and delicious too.

Soyabeans curry

Soyabeans curry is a thick gravy side dish which goes well with rotis or chapatis. It is a high protein dish which is made with soyabeans in a onion-tomato gravy and then mixed with Indian spices. Soyabeans are considered to be a source of complete proteins. This curry can be included in our daily diet to get the maximum health benefits.

Chana dal sundal recipe

Chana dal is a healthy snack which is prepared during Navaratri. It is called as kadalai paruppu sundal in Tamil Nadu. Different types of sundals are prepared during Navaratri. Navaratri is a festival which is celebrated for nine days. Navaratri means nine nights in Sanskrit and during these nine nights and ten days, nine forms of Devi are worshipped. Varieties types of sundals are prepared and served as an offering to God. Chana dal sundal is a healthy snack which can be prepared quickly. It is made with chana dal or bengal gram which is boiled and seasoned with spices.

Spiced mini or button idlis

Spiced mini or button idlis is a very popular South Indian snack. Mini idlis are prepared in mini idli stand (an idli tray with several small dents) which is easily available in the markets. They are prepared and then tempered with onions, tomatoes, red chilli powder and tomato ketchup. It is a very tasty and healthy option as it is steamed.

Small onions sambar recipe

Small onions sambar is a very traditional sambar made in South India. In Tamilnadu it is called as chinna vengaya sambar. Small onions are also called as shallots and are relatively smaller and tastes sweeter than onions. Sambar made with small onions makes up for an excellent side dish for rice, idlis&dosas and ven pongal. Here I have used the fresh sambar masala which is prepared and used immediately for making sambar which further enhances the taste of sambar.