KARAPPODI/GARLIC SPICE POWDER

Karappodi, this is known to every South Indian. The famous South Indian idly is incomplete without karappodi. This spicy powder is a favorite to everyone in my family. It can be served with almost all of the south Indian Tiffin's or even with rice. Karappodi with a spoonful of ghee forms a best combination for soft and fluffy idles. This spicy preparation when combined with garlic is very healthy.
INGREDIENTS

• Chana dal                   1/2 cup
• Urad dal                     1/4 cup
• Coriander seeds         3/4 cup
• Garlic cloves               12(small)
• Red chilies                  10
• Salt                             to taste
• Jeera                          1 tsp
• Tamarind                   small lemon sized ball
• Oil                               2 Tsp

PROCEDURE
Heat oil in a pan and add the dals, when they are half fried add the coriander seeds, red chilies, jeera, tamarind pieces, garlic cloves.
Fry them on a low flame till they are fully fried and the dals turn crunchy.
Cool the whole mixture.
Add enough salt and grind to a slightly coarse powder.
Serve with idly or dosa or upma or even plain rice. Don’t forget to add a spoonful of ghee.
TIPS
Add more of the chilies to increase the spice.
Curry leaves and/or dry coconut can also be added for a different flavor and taste.
Fry the whole thing on a slow flame.
You can decrease the tamarind if you don’t like the tanginess. Cut the tamarind into very tiny pieces and fry them along with the other ingredients.