Kulambu Milagai Powder

Kulambu Milagai Powder, also known as Sambar Powder, is a versatile and aromatic spice blend widely used in South Indian cuisine. It adds depth and richness to various dishes like sambar, kulambu, and other gravies. Here's a brief guide on how to create your own flavorful Kulambu Milagai Powder at home:

Ingredients

• 1 cup coriander seeds
• 1/2 cup dried red chillies (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 2 tablespoons urad dal (split black gram)
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 10-12 curry leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Instructions

• Dry Roasting: In a pan over medium-low heat, dry roast each of the following ingredients separately until they turn aromatic and slightly golden. Be cautious not to burn them. Transfer them to a plate after roasting:

  • Coriander seeds
  • Dried red chillies
  • Chana dal
  • Urad dal
  • Fenugreek seeds
  • Mustard seeds
  • Cumin seeds
  • Curry leaves
  • Black peppercorns

• Asafoetida: Roast the asafoetida (hing) in the pan for a few seconds. Be watchful, as it can burn quickly.

• Cooling: Allow all the roasted ingredients to cool down completely.

• Grinding: Once cooled, transfer the roasted ingredients to a spice grinder or mixer. Add turmeric powder as well.

• Grind: Grind the ingredients into a fine powder. Be careful not to over-grind, as the mixture might turn oily due to the natural oils in the seeds.

• Storage: Store the Kulambu Milagai Powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can stay fresh and aromatic for several weeks.

Using Kulambu Milagai Powder

To make a flavorful sambar or kulambu, heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, and curry leaves. Once they splutter and turn golden, add chopped vegetables, tamarind paste, salt, and sambar powder. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Finally, add cooked lentils and simmer. Your delicious kulambu is ready to be served with rice or dosa.

Kulambu Milagai Powder adds a fragrant, robust taste to your dishes, making them reminiscent of traditional South Indian flavors. Customize the spice level according to your preference and savor the authentic essence of South Indian cuisine in every bite!