Aamti

Ingredients:

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 1 small lemon-sized tamarind ball, soaked in water
• 2 tablespoons grated jaggery
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
• 1 medium-sized tomato, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon goda masala (available in Indian grocery stores) or substitute with garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Toor Dal:

   • Wash the toor dal thoroughly and cook it with enough water until it becomes soft and mushy. You can use a pressure cooker to expedite the process.

2. Prepare Tamarind Extract:

   • Soak the tamarind in warm water for about 15-20 minutes. Squeeze the tamarind to extract the pulp, and discard the solids. Keep the tamarind extract aside.

3. Prepare Aamti:

   • Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
   • Add asafoetida and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
   • Add finely chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.

4. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, goda masala (or garam masala), and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

5. Add Tamarind Extract and Jaggery:

   • Pour the tamarind extract into the pan and mix well.
   • Add grated jaggery and stir until it dissolves.

6. Add Cooked Toor Dal:

   • Add the cooked toor dal to the pan and mix everything together. Adjust the consistency by adding water if necessary.

7. Simmer and Garnish:

   • Let the Aamti simmer for about 10-15 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to blend.
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

8. Serve:

   • Aamti is ready to be served. It pairs well with steamed rice.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Aamti!