Pongal Kuzhambu 

Pongal Kuzhambu or Pongal kaikari Kulambu, a traditional South Indian delicacy, that is tangy , spicy and flavorful curry and is typically made during the auspicious festival of Thai Pongal and is a popular accompaniment to the delicious festive dish called

Pongal. The dish showcases a harmonious blend of traditional ingredients and spices that create a symphony of flavors.

 Pongal Kuzhambu has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated in the Tamil Nadu region of India, where it was traditionally prepared during the harvest festival of Pongal. The dish holds deep cultural and agricultural significance as it is a way to celebrate the abundance of the harvest.

Pongal Kulambu is an integral part of Tamil culture and is often prepared during festivals and special gatherings. It is a symbol of togetherness and is enjoyed by families and friends as they come together to celebrate and share a hearty meal. So, whether it's Pongal, a wedding, or simply a family get-together, Pongal Kulambu is sure to be a star on the dining table.

This Kulambu is made using a delightful combination of vegetables and spices. The key ingredients include tamarind pulp, sambar powder,coriander powder,turmeric powder, Kulambu thalippu vadagam , curry leaves, and a medley of country vegetables such as brinjal (eggplant), drumstick, sweet potato, broad beans, pumpkins ,Mochaikottai . You can add any country vegetables of your choice in odd numbers like 3,5,7 and so on.Traditionally adding Mochaikottai or field beans is a must.These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Preparing Pongal Kulambu is so simple , even for beginners.Start by pressure cooking the vegetables (Note :you can cook these in open pot if you are not comfortable with cooking them in pressure cooker),then in a kadai heat oil and temper with spices or kulambu thalippu vadagam, then saute the garlic, small onions and tomatoes, next add in all the masala powders and tamarind extract, required salt and water and allow the Kulambu to boil until raw smell goes and now add in the cooked vegetables and continue to simmer until desired consistency. Finally add the jaggery and switch off the gas.Delicious Pongal Kulambu is now ready.

This Pongal Kulambu tastes best the next day and is usually served with Paal Pongal, Sakkarai Pongal etc..

Just like with any traditional dish, Pongal Kulambu has regional variations that add their own unique twist. In some regions, cooked toor dal is added to this recipe making it a version of sambar while others  add ground masala spices along with coconut  to create a creamy texture.Each variation brings a new dimension to this already delightful dish.Check out another version of this Kulambu which is called Thalagam Kulambu or Ezhu Kari Kootu.

Pongal Kulambu not only tantalizes your taste buds but also comes with a host of health benefits. With its combination of vegetables and spices, it packs a punch in terms of nutrition. The vegetables offer essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, while the spices are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The health benefits of Pongal Kulambu range from aiding digestion to boosting immunity. The tamarind in the dish is known for its digestive properties, while the spices can help improve metabolism and support overall well-being. So, you can savor every spoonful of Pongal Kulambu guilt-free, knowing that it not only satisfies your taste buds but also contributes to your health.

Now this Pongal Kulambu is not just a delicious curry; it is a reflection of the vibrant culinary traditions of South India. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this dish has stood the test of time and continues to be cherished by food enthusiasts worldwide. Whether enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal, Pongal Kulambu brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the joy of preparing and relishing this timeless favorite. Celebrate the spirit of Pongal with every spoonful of delightful Pongal Kulambu!

Ingredients

Drumsticks -1 no

Brinjal -3 nos

Broad beans -10 nos

Yellow pumpkin -1/2 cup

Sweet potato-1 no

Potato -1-2 nos

Field beans (Mochaikottai)-1/4-1/2 cup

Small onions -15-20 nos

Garlic -10 nos

Tomato -1-2 nos

Tamarind extract-1/2-3/4 cup

Sambar powder -3 tsps

Coriander powder -3 tsps

Red chilli powder -1 tsp

Turmeric powder -1/4 tsp 

Salt to taste 

Jaggery -1 tsp

Kulambu thalippu vadagam-1 tsp

Curry leaves -few

Gingelly oil -2-3 tbsps 

Recipe Video 

Method 

👉In a pressure cooker add drumsticks, brinjal, yellow pumpkin, broad beans, sweet potatoes, potatoes and Mochaikottai, add 1 1/2 cups of water just enough to cover the veggies and switch on the gas.

👉Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles and allow pressure to settle and open the cooker the veggies would have been perfectly cooked, now set aside along with the water .

👉Now heat gingelly oil in a kadai add Kulambu thalippu vadagam (note -if you don’t have these you can use regular tempering of mustard seeds, fenugreek and curry leaves ) , curry leaves and sauté for few seconds then add in the garlic, small onions and sauté well .Next add the tomatoes and sauté until mushy.

👉Add in all the masala powders and sauté for few seconds.

👉Pour the tamarind extract, required water and salt mix well 

👉Allow the Kulambu to boil for 5 minutes.

👉Now add the cooked veggies along with the water, mix gently and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes or until desired consistency.

👉Finally add the jaggery mix well and switch off the gas.

👉Delicious healthy and traditional pongal Kuzhambu is ready.

Preparation time-30 minutes 

Serves-6-7