Sundakkai Vathal – Ready To Fry Turkey Berry Fryums / Crips

Sundakkai Vathal is a traditional South Indian condiment that is widely used in Indian cuisine. Sundakkai is the Tamil name for Turkey Berry or Solanum Torvum, a small, round fruit that is used in various culinary preparations across India. Vathal refers to the sun-drying process that is used to preserve these berries. Sundakkai Vathal is an essential ingredient in South Indian cooking and is used to add a unique flavor and texture to various dishes.

Importance of Sundakkai Vathal in South Indian cuisine:

Sundakkai Vathal is an important ingredient in South Indian cuisine and is used to add a tangy and slightly bitter flavor to various dishes. It is commonly used in sambar, kuzhambu, rasam, and chutneys, and is also served as a side dish. The sun-drying process used to preserve Sundakkai Vathal gives it a unique texture and flavor that enhances the taste of dishes.

Brief history of Sundakkai Vathal:

Sundakkai Vathal has a long history in South Indian cuisine and has been used in various preparations for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Tamil Nadu, where it is still widely used. Sundakkai Vathal is also used in other parts of South India, including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala.

Preparation of Sundakkai Vathal:

Ingredients required:

• Sundakkai (Turkey Berry)
• Salt
• Turmeric powder

Method of preparation:

1. Clean and wash the Sundakkai berries thoroughly.
2. Cut the berries into small pieces and remove the seeds.
3. Mix the berries with salt and turmeric powder.
4. Spread the berries on a clean cloth and leave them to dry in the sun for 3-4 days.
5. Store the dried berries in an airtight container.

Sun drying process: The sun-drying process is crucial in the preparation of Sundakkai Vathal. It not only helps in preserving the berries but also enhances their flavor and texture. The berries are spread on a clean cloth and left to dry in the sun for 3-4 days. During this time, the moisture is removed, and the berries become dry and crispy.

How to Fry Sundakkai Vathal

Frying Sundakkai Vathal is a simple process that requires only a few steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to frying Sundakkai Vathal:

1. Heat oil: Take a pan and add oil to it. Heat the oil on medium flame until it reaches the right temperature for frying.
2. Add Sundakkai Vathal: Once the oil is hot enough, add the Sundakkai Vathal to the pan. You can add as much as you want, depending on the quantity of Vathal you want to fry.
3. Fry the Vathal: Fry the Sundakkai Vathal on medium flame until it turns crispy and golden brown. It may take around 5-7 minutes to fry the Vathal.
4. Remove from heat: Once the Vathal turns crispy and golden brown, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon. Place the fried Vathal on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
5. Season the Vathal: While the Vathal is still hot, sprinkle some salt and other spices of your choice to season it. Toss the Vathal to evenly coat it with the spices.
6. Store: Allow the fried Vathal to cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container. You can store it for up to a month and use it as required.

Frying Sundakkai Vathal is a quick and easy process, and the crispy and flavorful Vathal can be enjoyed as a snack or used as a condiment in various South Indian dishes.

Health Benefits of Sundakkai Vathal:

• Sundakkai Vathal is not only a flavorful condiment but also has several health benefits. Some of the health benefits of Sundakkai Vathal are:
• Rich in antioxidants: Sundakkai Vathal is rich in antioxidants that help in protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants also help in reducing inflammation and improving overall health.
• Good for digestion: Sundakkai Vathal is known to aid digestion and improve gut health. It helps in relieving constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues. The high fiber content in Sundakkai Vathal promotes healthy bowel movements and helps in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
• Helps in managing diabetes: Sundakkai Vathal is known to help in managing diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. The high fiber content in Sundakkai Vathal slows down the absorption of sugar in the body, thus preventing spikes in blood sugar levels.
• Boosts immunity: Sundakkai Vathal is rich in vitamins and minerals that help in boosting the immune system. It is particularly rich in vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties.
• Other benefits: Sundakkai Vathal is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing inflammation in the body. It is also believed to have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm this.

Culinary Uses of Sundakkai Vathal:

• Sundakkai Vathal is a versatile condiment that is used in various culinary preparations in South Indian cuisine. Some of the common culinary uses of Sundakkai Vathal are:
• Sundakkai Vathal as a side dish: Sundakkai Vathal is often served as a side dish in South Indian meals. It is usually fried in oil and seasoned with salt and other spices.
• Sundakkai Vathal in sambar and kuzhambu: Sundakkai Vathal is a popular ingredient in sambar and kuzhambu, two of the most common South Indian dishes. It adds a tangy and slightly bitter flavor to these dishes and enhances their taste.
• Sundakkai Vathal in rasam: Sundakkai Vathal is also used in rasam, a South Indian soup made with tamarind and spices. It adds a unique flavor and texture to rasam and makes it more delicious.
• Sundakkai Vathal in chutneys and podis: Sundakkai Vathal is also used in various chutneys and podis, which are dry spice mixes used to flavor dishes. It adds a tangy and slightly bitter flavor to these preparations and enhances their taste.

Sundakkai Vathal is a unique and flavorful condiment that is widely used in South Indian cuisine. It is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. Sundakkai Vathal is easy to prepare and can be used in various culinary preparations, making it a versatile and essential ingredient in South Indian cooking. We recommend trying Sundakkai Vathal to experience its unique flavor and enjoy its numerous health benefits.