Pappula podi is a versatile spiced powder that enhances the flavor profile of vegetarian dishes lending them a unique taste. Most vegetables on the likes of okra, eggplant, ivy gourd and bitter gourd taste remarkably good when seasoned with Pappula podi.

A much cherished and relished vegetable in our home is bitter gourd. A favorite of mine is today’s bitter gourd pickle with a sweet flavor that happens to be one of Amma’s specialty dishes. What makes it palate pleasing is the addition of jaggery and tamarind combined with a tempering of curry leaves and dals that add for a bit of crunch. Sweet, sour and tangy flavors that are enticing and addictive.

A quick breakfast/evening tiffin prepared with left over idlis for one of those not-feeling-good days. Similar to Idli Upma with a slight variation.

My vegetable vendor brought home some fresh red sorrel leaves this morning. Prepared a rice dish on the lines of tamarind rice and use sorrel leaves as the main ingredient to provide the tart flavor. A classic Andhra favorite among the ‘gongura’ lovers.

An exotic Andhra-style rich celebration dish with smooth, warm and rich flavors. No onions or tomatoes go into its making, the main player being poppy seeds which lend the dish its body and a subtle sweet flavor. As you bite into the eggplant, you can savor layers of roasted sweet, tangy and savory flavors.

Have you tried cabbage in the form a crispy pakoda? If you haven’t and are fond of cabbage then you should try today’s recipe. To many, cabbage may not be the prettiest or tastiest of vegetables but it more than makes up in flavor in the garb of a besan coated, golden crisp pakodi.

If you are fond of greens, especially Amaranth leaves aka Chauli, then I’d like to draw your attention to today’s quick and simple dish that not only adds color, flavor and aroma to your meal but loads of nutrition too. Sauteed greens are combined in a spiced yogurt sauce and garnished with coriander leaves.

Recreating restaurant style food at home is fun but can be frustrating when the same flavor cannot be replicated at home. In most restaurants, while ordering biryani, they serve a gravy to go with it. The gravy that accompanies the biryani differs from restaurant to restaurant.

Another great monsoon treat that is savory and perfectly crisp with the minty flavor shining through every bite. Ginger and mint are the key players so if you venture to prepare them on a rain filled day, do use both. Your chai experience will be memorable. My guarantee.

Spring onion Pakoda – A perfect monsoon snack! Its been pouring all day long and my palate has been craving for a deep-fried comforting snack. These pakodas have a soft texture as compared to the crispy ‘gatti pakodi’. Make for a wonderful savory tea time snack or appetizer.