In Tamil “Ellu” means sesame seeds and in South Indian cuisine, sesame seeds have been playing an integral role while providing distinctive, rich and nutty flavour. Sesame seeds come in two variants, one is white and the other is black. The black sesame seeds are more powerful in essence and flavour. The sesame seeds are also added to bread, buns and bagels in the baking items. In South Indian traditions, sesame seeds play a huge part in its cuisine for their nutritional benefits and its one-of-a-kind flavour. It is also considered to have been used in folk medicine for many centuries. However, it is recommended to add sesame seeds in moderation as they cause a lot of heat in the body.
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In South India, you can witness Ellu in various dishes from sweet to savoury. The dishes are made in such innovative ways that flavour, nutritional value, and taste stand intact. Sesame seeds are also known for their versatility. The main process when it comes to sesame seeds is dry roasting. This part enhances the flavour of the seeds to another level. Sesame seeds are inculcated in many creations across the culinary world. Here are five simple ways to add sesame seeds to your food while exploring the dishes that uphold the richness of the sesame seed.
Ellu Podi
In Tamil, “Ellu Podi,” means sesame seed powder, which is a blend of roasted sesame seeds that are blended with other spices. It is a highly-flavoured and versatile powder that can be accompanied by idli, dosa, and rice. The addition of this simple powder elevates the taste multifold, especially when served with a dollop of ghee in it. The aromatic powder can also be incorporated as a condiment in South Indian dishes. It can also be added as a dip base and in marinades making it a fantastic choice for adaptability in the regional cuisine.
Ellu Sadham
Ellu Sadham is a dish which is simple to make and flavourful to taste. In Tamil, “Ellu,” means sesame, and “Sadham” means rice. Ellu Sadham is a South Indian comforting and nutritious dish that can be made with white or brown rice. The sesame seeds are dry roasted and ground to paste. The combination of cooked rice and the Ellu paste enriches the dish with a nutty aromatic flavour. The rice mix is then tempered with mustard seeds, urad dal, dry chillies, and curry leaves. Ellu Sadham is a delightful dish that can be accompanied by zesty pickles like mango or garlic.
Ellu Kuzhambu
Ellu Kuzhambu is a fantastic tangy and aromatic curry that has sesame seeds as a key ingredient. In Tamil, “Ellu,” means sesame seeds, and “Kuzhambu” means curry. This savoury and nutty-tasting dish can be paired with brinjal or pumpkin and turned into a rich curry-like sauce. Kuzhambu is seasoned with tamarind and sambar powder. To make the curry more flavourful, it is tempered with mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, dry chillies, and curry leaves.
Ellu Urundai
Ellu Urundai is a traditionally made sweet dish consisting of balls that are made with the main ingredients such as sesame seeds, jaggery, and cardamom powder. This nutty aromatic dish is not only delicious but also a sweet dish served on special festivals and celebratory occasions. The sesame ladoo is called by different names in different regions such as Ellu urundai in Tamil, Ellu unde in Kannada, and Nuvvula undalu in Telugu, etc. Ellu Urundai is a fantastic nutritious snack that is made during the festivities or special occasions in South Indian celebrations.
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Ellu Thogayal
In Tamil, “Ellu Thogayal” means sesame chutney. This chutney is made from roasted sesame seeds and a blend of seasoned tomato, onion, coriander leaves, garlic, coconut, green chillies, and tamarind. It is then tempered with mustard seeds, dry chillies, and curry leaves to enhance the aromatic flavours of the chutney. It is mouth-watering when it is complemented with idli, dosa, and rice. Ellu thogayal can also be made into a creamy thick consistency. This dish is an example of the versatility of sesame seeds in South Indian dishes.
These few dishes of mild, sweet, and nutty flavoured dimensions of the sesame seeds are quick and very easy to make. They are also healthy, gluten-free, vegan choices while also reflecting the beauty and essence of South Indian cuisines.