Kadalakkari

K adalakkari, also known as Kadala Kari or Kadala Curry, is a flavourful curry made with black chickpeas. Kadala is Malayalam for chickpeas, also called kala chana. It’s normally served with Puttu or Appam and is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala. It’s a traditional, gluten-free, and vegan curry, appetising and filling, and is able to pack in a punch of flavours. The chickpeas makes it  a great protein source for vegetarians as well.

To make it, one needs chickpeas and water for soaking and cooking in the pressure cooker. The garam masala that goes into the dish constitutes fennel seeds, mace, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The coconut paste requires coconut and water for grinding. And other ingredients that go into the dish include shallots, ginger, green chillies, curry leaves, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, black pepper powder, coconut oil, and salt as per taste.

Channa or chickpeas also come with several health benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, fibres, and protein, consuming chickpeas helps one feel full longer, thus lowering calorie intake and contributing to better weight management. They also aid bone health, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote better digestive health. The choline and other nutrients they contain help with better brain function and improves overall mental health. They’re an excellent source of iron too, and regular consumption may prevent iron deficiency.