Milagu Kuzhambu/Pepper Gravy -

Ingredients

(I have adjusted the measurements of Pepper and Jeera according to my spice requirement.)

Pepper - 3 tsp
Jeera - 1.5 tsp
Channa dall- 1.5 tsp
Red Chillies - 3 (Medium size)
Tamarind - half a small lemon size
Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp
Asafoetedia - a pinch
Salt - as required
Water - as required
Gingely Oil -as required
Mustard Seeds - few
Curry Leaves - few

Method

• In a pan dry roast pepper ,jeera,red chillies,curry leaves(optional) and keep aside.Again to the same pan drizzle some oil and roast the channa dall,Since channa dall may not get properly roasted using dry roast i did this method of roasting.Let them cool,meanwhile soak the tamarind in water and extract tamarind juice and keep ready.

• Once the roasted ingredients are cool,grind them in your mixer to a fine powder.In a small bowl add the tamarind extract to that mix the ground powder,turmeric powder and salt.

• In a pan add gingelly oil and temper with mustard seeds and add curry leaves and finally add a pinch of asafoetedia and immediately pour the pepper mix and add 1 cup of water extra.Let them simmer until you get a gravy consistency.Switch off the flame once done.

• Serve with hot rice.