PULIKKACHAL

Pulikkachal is a spicy, tangy instant rice mix. It is the paste used for making puliyodharai. This is "Neyar Viruppam" from many friends. This is exclusively pulikkachal preparation.

INGREDIENTS:

• Tamarind extract – 2 cups
• Mustard seeds- 1 tsp. 
• Chenna dal – 1 tsp
• Dry red chillies – 4 
• Methi seeds – ½ tsp 
• Groundnuts- 2 tsp. 
• Curry leaves - few 
• Hing 
• Turmeric powder -1/2 tsp.
• Gingelly oil -1 cup
• Salt 

METHOD:

Soak 2 lemon sized balls of tamarind in lukewarm water, extract pulp and keep aside. In a heavy bottomed pan, heat gingelly oil, add all the ingredients except the tamarind extract. When they turn golden brown, add the pulp and stir till it becomes like a paste. This is pulikkachal. This can be stored for 2 to 3 months in a refrigerator. Puliyodharai preparation is here.

Dry roast pepper, red chillies, coriander seeds, chenna dal and methi seeds and powder it in a mixie. This can be stored in an air-tight container.

NOTE: Pulikkachal + the powder mentioned in puliyodharai preparation makes puliyodharai distinct & unique and also enhances the flavour.