The tradition of making spice powders like this dates back generations in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India. They were created as a way to preserve the goodness of seasonal ingredients – like curry leaves, which are packed with nutrients and flavor.
By slow-roasting and grinding them with dals, chillies, and garlic, families made sure nothing went to waste and that meals were always rich in taste.
If you love that punchy, aromatic hit of curry leaves podi with your idlis or dosas, you’re going to adore this recipe. We’re blending roasted dals, spices, garlic and loads of curry leaves into a perfect, store-and-scoop powder.
It’s super simple, comes together in about half an hour, and makes your breakfast (or snack) feel extra special.
Why You’ll Love Curry Leaves Podi
- Bright, Herbal Punch: Curry leaves lend an unmistakable citrus-earthy aroma.
- Nutty Texture: Roasted dals and seeds add protein, crunch, and satiety.
- Versatile Condiment: Sprinkle on idlis, dosas, rice bowls, or even roasted veggies.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Store in an airtight jar for up to two weeks—always ready when you crave a flavor upgrade.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Chana & Urad Dal: Provide protein, crunch, and that toasty aroma when dry-roasted.
- Coriander & Cumin Seeds: Earthy warmth and depth.
- Red Chilies: A balance of heat and color.
- Garlic & Tamarind: Garlicky punch and tangy brightness.
- Curry Leaves: The star—crispy, aromatic, and packed with antioxidants.
- Rock Salt & Hing: Bold seasoning and subtle umami.
Bringing It All Together
- Prep Your Leaves: Wash and pat curry leaves completely dry—no moisture allowed or the podi won’t crisp up.
- Roast the Bases: In a wide pan over low flame, roast chana dal and urad dal until golden. Add coriander seeds, cumin seeds, red chilies, garlic cloves, and tamarind bits—toast until fragrant.
- Finish with Curry Leaves: Toss in the dry curry leaves, keep stirring on low heat until they turn deep green and crisp. Sprinkle in rock salt and hing, mix, then cool on a plate.
- Grind to Perfection: Once room temperature, blitz the mixture into a fine powder in small batches—be careful not to over-grind into paste. Cool again completely before storing.
💡 Pro Tip: Dry-roast each ingredient separately until you smell its aroma—this layering technique maximizes fragrance in your final podi.
What Goes Along
- Mini Idlis or Regular Idlis: Toss with a spoonful of podi and a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Dosas or Uthappams: Sprinkle on top just before folding.
- Steamed Rice: A quick “podi rice” whipped together in minutes.
- Roasted Vegetables: A dash of podi adds depth to simple roasted carrots or potatoes.
How to Serve
For Curry Leaves Podi Idli, heat a little sesame oil or ghee in a pan, add mini idlis, and toss until edges turn golden. Stir in a spoonful of your freshly ground podi, finish with a drizzle of ghee, and serve hot—no chutney required!
Packing & Storage
- Airtight Jar: Keeps crispy for up to 2 weeks in a cool, dry place.
- Travel-Friendly: Make small sachets to pack with lunch for an instant flavor boost.
Party & Bulk Prep
Scale up by roasting ingredients in batches to maintain even heat. Store large jars of podi in pantry; set out bowls of idlis or rice with oils and podi for a DIY flavor bar—guests can customize their own plates.
Add this Curry Leaves Podi to your spice arsenal and watch mundane meals transform into aromatic feasts. Ready to crunch your way to flavor town? Try it tonight and let me know your favorite pairing!
Curry Leaves Podi
Description
This Curry Leaves Podi, also known as Karuvepillai Podi, is a flavorful South Indian spice powder made by roasting curry leaves, lentils, red chillies, garlic, and spices, then grinding them into a fine, aromatic powder. It’s the perfect accompaniment to idlis or dosas, giving them a spicy, savory kick without needing chutney or sambar. The earthy flavor of roasted curry leaves and garlic, combined with the nutty crunch of dals, makes this podi not just delicious but also nutritious. Easy to prepare, this podi stores well and can instantly transform your breakfast or snack into something special.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prep Work
-
Clean curry leaves
Rinse the curry leaves under running water and pat them completely dry.
-
Peel garlic
Remove the papery skin from each garlic clove. -
Break tamarind
Separate the tamarind into small, manageable pieces. -
Measure spices & dals
Portion out dals, seeds, chillies, salt and hing into small bowls.
Method
-
Roast dals
In a wide pan, roast the chana dal and urad dal on low heat until they turn golden brown.
-
Add seeds, chilli & garlic
Toss in the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, red chillies, tamarind pieces and garlic cloves. Continue roasting on low until fragrant. -
Roast curry leaves
Add the dried curry leaves and roast until they crisp up and all moisture has evaporated. -
Season
Sprinkle in the rock salt and hing powder. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
-
Cool mixture
Transfer the contents to a plate and let it cool completely at room temperature. -
Grind to powder
Once cool, grind the mixture in a mixer jar until you get a fine powder. Spread it back on the plate to cool fully before storing.
-
Store
Scoop the cooled powder into an airtight jar. Store in a cool, dry place for up to a month.
Equipment
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 45kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
- Sodium 50mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Protein 2g4%
- Calcium 20 mg
- Iron 1.2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.