Roma's Space

A month ago my dear friend and neighbour, Namita invited us over for dinner. It was the day of holi and we were tired after the day-long celebrations. We had a colored, water-filled bash in the apartment, after which we went to a couple of places to wish family members. By the end of the day I was glad I was invited for dinner as I didnt have the stamina to cook.

Namita had made an array of tradional Konkani dishes. After a discussion with her I learnt that Konkani food is fairly simple and very nutritious. They dont believe in using too much oil or spices. I noticed that the food had a flavor thats different from the other South-Indian cuisines.

Tomato Saar for instance is one such simple curry which uses the usual South-Indian ingredients like tomatoes, coconut , chillies and curry leaves yet it manages to create a never-before taste. After we returned from her place I tried this Saar out and it was an instant hit at home. Ever since we have made it almost four times and still cant seem to get enough of it.

Ingredients :

• 4 big ripe tomatoes
• 3-4 finger like pieces of coconut
• 2 green chillies
• 1/4 teaspoon methi seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon rai
• Few curry leaves

Procedure :

1. Boil the tomatoes with green chillies till they are soft. Save the boiled water.
2. In a little bit of oil roast the methi seeds to golden color.
3. Grind the boiled tomatoes, chillies with methi seeds and coconut in a mixie jar.
4. Now in the previously saved boiled water add the ground mixture and give it another boil.
5. For the tempering heat oil. Add rai, curry leaves and pour over the saar.