For preparing chutni, we use tender teppal (called jeev teppal in Konkani) which is generally available during rainy season. These tender teppals have a very strong aroma compared to dried ones. These are used in chutnis, tambli or tavashe (cucumber) hulel etc. When used, teppal is not eaten directly with the dish, but picked up and thrown. These teppals grow fully in December or January when they are collected, dried and stored in airtight containers after removing the seeds from them.
Ingredients: 1 cup grated coconut 3-4 green chillies 1/2 tea spn thick tamarind extract Salt 7-8 Teppal (tender ones preferred, if not available, use dried ones)
Method: Grind all the ingredients except teppal in a mixer to a smooth paste. Take a table spoon of water in a mortar, add the teppals and crush them with pestle. Remove and discard the teppals and add the water to the paste. The chutni is ready for use. The same can be diluted and used as tambli with rice. The chutni can also be mixed with cucumber pieces to make hulel.
Serves : 4-5 Preparation time : 10mins
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I have been trying to include more fish and chicken in our diet. It took a while for us to get used to the smelly fish – salmon. Since this is one of the healthiest fishes available in the market here, I try to make something with it atleast once a week. Recently I tried 2 types of kababs with them. I think they looked kinda cool. So Ishaan was ready to try these. The pieces get marinated very well as they are cut into small pieces.
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon cut into 2×2 inch pieces 1 tbl spn chopped coriander leaves Lemon wedges
Marinade : Make a smooth paste of following 1/2 cup thick yogurt 1 tea spn ginger 1 tea spn garlic 1 tea spn chilli powder A pinch turmeric 1/2 tea spn coriander powder 1/2 tea spn cumin powder 1/2 tea spn amchoor powder Salt
Method: Apply the marinade to salmon pieces. Add the coriander leaves. Leave it aside for atleast 2hrs. Arrange the pieces on skewers. Grill them till done. I use my cast iron grill pan for grilling. Serve hot with lemon. Serve it as a starter or as a main dish with some rice and a simple dal.
Serves : 2-3 Preparation time : 30mins
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