Weight: 100 gms
Chundakai Vattal, a cherished specialty from South India, encapsulates the essence of preserving and transforming fresh ivy gourd into a delightful and crispy snack. Known for its local names such as “Kundru Vathal” or “Tendli Vadi,” this traditional treat showcases the resourcefulness of preserving seasonal produce. The process involves thinly slicing fresh ivy gourd, marinating the slices with a blend of spices and salt, sun-drying them to achieve the desired texture, and ultimately deep-frying to create a snack that boasts a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. Chundakai Vattal exemplifies the art of turning humble ingredients into a snack that’s not only visually appealing but also a testament to the culinary craftsmanship of South Indian cuisine.
Beyond its culinary allure, Chundakai Vattal offers potential benefits rooted in its ingredients. Ivy gourd is known for its potential health attributes, and when crafted into this crispy form, it brings a unique twist to nutritional intake. This snack not only pays homage to culinary traditions but also encourages a connection with local produce and an appreciation for the creative processes that have been passed down through generations. With each bite of Chundakai Vattal, one can experience a delightful interplay of tastes and textures that capture the essence of South Indian gastronomy.
Ingredients:
Sun dried Turkey berry, and salt.
How To Eat:
- As a Snack: Chundakai Vattal can be enjoyed as a standalone snack. Pick up a piece and relish the crispy texture and the blend of spices that coat the ivy gourd.
- Pair with Meals: Incorporate Chundakai Vattal as a side dish with your meals. The crunchiness of the vattals can provide an interesting contrast to the textures of other dishes.
- With Rice: Crush or break Chundakai Vattal into smaller pieces and mix it with rice. This can add both flavor and crunch to your rice preparations.
- In Yogurt: Combine crushed Chundakai Vattal with yogurt or raita. The vattals can bring a crispy element to the creamy texture of yogurt.
- As a Garnish: Use crushed Chundakai Vattal as a garnish for salads, chaats, or even soups. It can add an exciting crunch and a burst of flavor.
- Creative Dips: Pair Chundakai Vattal with creative dips like mint chutney, tamarind dip, or yogurt-based sauces for a dynamic flavor combination.
- Mindful Eating: Savour Chundakai Vattal mindfully by paying attention to the combination of flavors, textures, and the satisfaction each bite brings.
- Moderation: Enjoy Chundakai Vattal in moderation as part of a balanced diet due to its deep-fried nature. Balance it with nutrient-rich foods.
- Culinary Exploration: If you’re new to Chundakai Vattal, approach it with an open palate. The unique taste of ivy gourd combined with spices can create a memorable culinary experience.
Shelf Life:
Several weeks to a few months if stored properly
Storage Instructions:
Store in a cool and dry place in an air tight container
Benefits:
- Nutrient Content: Ivy gourd, the central ingredient of Chundakai Vattal, is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin A) and minerals (including potassium and iron).
- Antioxidant Properties: Ivy gourd is known for its potential antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and support overall health.
- Digestive Benefits: The dietary fiber present in ivy gourd can contribute to digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting gut function.
- Low Calories: Chundakai Vattal is generally made from ingredients that are relatively low in calories, making it a satisfying yet calorie-conscious snack option.
- Crispy Texture and Flavor: The deep-frying process results in a crispy texture that satisfies cravings for crunchy snacks. The blend of spices adds a burst of flavor to the ivy gourd.
- Mindful Eating: The combination of textures and flavors in Chundakai Vattal encourages mindful eating, as you pay attention to each bite and the satisfaction it brings.
- Cultural Connection: Enjoying Chundakai Vattal allows you to connect with South Indian culinary traditions and appreciate the use of local produce in creating unique snacks.
- Variety in Diet: Incorporating Chundakai Vattal introduces variety to your diet, allowing you to explore different tastes and textures in snack options.
