Kammapodi

Kammapodi is a traditional South Indian spice powder made by roasting lentils and spices, creating a flavorful and aromatic condiment that pairs perfectly with rice and ghee.

Ingredients

1. 1 cup toor dal
2. ½ cup urad dal
3. ½ cup moong dal
4. 1 tsp cumin seeds
5. 2 stems curry leaves
6. 1 whole dry red chili
7. Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Roast the Lentils

   • Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on medium flame.
   • Add toor dal, urad dal, and moong dal together.
   • Dry roast them evenly, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
   • Roast until the dals turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma.
   • Remove from heat and transfer to a plate to cool completely.

2. Fry the Spices

   • In the same pan, add 1 tsp oil.
   • Once the oil heats up, add cumin seeds, red chili, and curry leaves.
   • Fry until the curry leaves turn crisp and the cumin seeds start spluttering.
   • Take off the heat and let the mixture cool.

3. Grind and Store the Powder

   • Combine the roasted lentils and fried spices in a mixer jar.
   • Add salt to taste.
   • Grind everything together into a smooth, fine powder.
   • Once cooled, store the Kammapodi in an airtight container.
   • Serve with hot rice and a drizzle of ghee for a comforting traditional meal.