Authentic Horsegram Kollu Podi Recipe – Sesame Oil & Hing Flavor

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Horsegram Kollu Podi Recipe – Sesame Oil & Hing Flavor

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s been a staple in my family for generations – Kollu Podi, or Horsegram Powder. It’s a wonderfully flavorful and healthy condiment that adds a delicious kick to pretty much anything. I remember my grandmother always having a jar of this ready, and it instantly transports me back to her kitchen. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Horsegram Podi isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile. It’s perfect with rice, idli, dosa, or even stirred into yogurt. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients! It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a busy weeknight, and the aroma while roasting the ingredients is just heavenly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing podi:

• 1 cup Horsegram (Kollu) – about 200g
• 1/3 cup Urad Dal – about 65g
• 1/3 cup Chana Dal – about 65g
• 8 Whole Red Chilies
• ½ teaspoon Hing (Asafoetida) – adjust to taste
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients a little more. A few tips can really make a difference!

Horsegram (Kollu): Health Benefits & Regional Uses

Horsegram, or Kollu, is a nutritional powerhouse! It’s a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and iron. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, it’s known for its warming properties and is especially popular during the winter months. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores.

Urad Dal & Chana Dal: The Perfect Lentil Combination

Urad Dal (black gram) and Chana Dal (split chickpeas) add a lovely nutty flavor and texture to the podi. Roasting them separately really brings out their individual flavors. Don’t skip this step!

The Significance of Hing (Asafoetida)

Hing, or Asafoetida, is a bit of an unsung hero in Indian cooking. It has a pungent aroma in its raw form, but when cooked, it adds a beautiful savory depth. A little goes a long way, so start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your liking.

Sesame Oil: Flavor & Aroma Profile

Sesame oil is key to the authentic flavor of this podi. It has a distinct nutty aroma that complements the other ingredients beautifully. If you absolutely can’t find it, you can use another neutral oil, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.

Red Chilies: Spice Level & Varieties

I use Byadagi chilies for a vibrant color and moderate spice. You can adjust the number of chilies based on your preference. If you like it really hot, add a few more! Guntur chilies are another option for a spicier kick.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Roast the Horsegram: Heat a pan over low-medium heat. Add the horsegram and a few drops of sesame oil. Roast, stirring frequently, until it darkens and starts to pop – this takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Once roasted, remove and let it cool completely.
2. Roast the Dals: In the same pan, roast the urad dal until golden brown and fragrant. This will take around 3-5 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool. Repeat with the chana dal.
3. Roast the Red Chilies: Now, roast the whole red chilies until they become crisp. This happens quickly, so keep a close eye on them! Remove and let them cool with the other ingredients.
4. Grind it All Together: Once everything is completely cool, transfer all the roasted ingredients to a grinder or blender. Add the hing and salt. Grind into a coarse powder. Don’t over-grind it – you want some texture!
5. Cool & Store: Let the podi cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This prevents condensation and keeps it fresh for longer.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

Roasting Techniques for Perfect Podi

Low and slow is the way to go! Roasting on a lower heat ensures that the ingredients are cooked evenly and don’t burn. Constant stirring is also crucial.

Achieving the Right Podi Consistency

I prefer a slightly coarse texture for my podi. It adds a nice bite. If you prefer a finer powder, just grind it for a little longer.

Storing Podi for Maximum Freshness

Always make sure the podi is completely cool before storing it. An airtight container is essential to prevent moisture from getting in.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! No changes needed.

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Spice Level Adjustment (Mild to Hot)

Adjust the number of red chilies to control the spice level. For a milder podi, remove the seeds from the chilies before roasting.

Regional Variations – Tamil Nadu vs. Karnataka Style Podi

Tamil Nadu style podi often includes curry leaves for extra flavor. Karnataka style podi sometimes incorporates a small amount of coconut for a slightly sweeter taste. Feel free to experiment! My friend, Priya, always adds a pinch of turmeric to hers.

Serving Suggestions

This podi is incredibly versatile! Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Mix it with hot rice and a drizzle of ghee.
• Serve it with idli or dosa.
• Stir it into yogurt for a flavorful dip.
• Sprinkle it over uttapam.

Storage Instructions

Store the cooled podi in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to 2-3 months.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is Horsegram (Kollu) and is it good for me?

Yes! Horsegram is incredibly nutritious. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and iron, and is known for its health benefits in Ayurvedic medicine.

Can I use a different oil instead of sesame oil?

You can, but sesame oil really adds to the authentic flavor. If you must substitute, use a neutral oil like sunflower or vegetable oil.

How can I adjust the spice level of this podi?

Reduce the number of red chilies for a milder podi, or add more for a spicier one. Removing the seeds from the chilies also helps reduce the heat.

What is Hing (Asafoetida) and where can I find it?

Hing is a resin with a pungent aroma that adds a savory depth to Indian dishes. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, often in powdered form or as a solid resin.

How long does Kollu Podi stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Kollu Podi will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months.

Can I make this podi in a larger batch?

Absolutely! This recipe scales up easily. Just double or triple the ingredients as needed.

Enjoy making this delicious and healthy Horsegram Podi! I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen too. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!