Priya Nalla Karam literally translates to ‘Black chili powder’ a traditional recipe in Andhra cuisine. Red chilis, curry leaves, and black gram dal with husk are the main ingredients in nalla Karam for its dark shade. Coriander seeds, tamarind, and raw garlic give the podi a wonderful texture and flavor. This podi is tastes best with hot rice and a dollop of ghee or gingelly oil. It also makes for a delectable side with idli. Liberally sprinkle the podi on the warm idlis, drizzle some gingelly oil or ghee and relish.

Priya Nalla Karam is almost black in color and derives its name from its color. On a more serious note, most of our traditional recipes are so very nutritious. The black gram dal, curry leaves and coriander seeds in this spice blend give one a good dose of calcium, carotene, potassium, magnesium, iron, vitamin C, and fiber. Given that Nalla Kharam is almost always eaten with ghee, a person can get a good dose of calcium in one shot. If you are a vegetarian, this is the best source of protein you can ever get.

If you have kids at home and find it difficult to make them eat any kind of healthy version of the food. Just try something different to impress them like this Nalla Karam Podi sprinkle on the warm idlis, dosa, or uttapam on their plates.