Weight: 100 gms
Parikkai Vattal, a culinary gem hailing from South India, encapsulates the art of transforming bitter gourd into a flavorful and crispy snack. Also known as “Karela Vathal” or “Bitter Gourd Sun-Dried Snack,” this traditional delight embodies the ingenuity of utilizing seasonal produce in innovative ways. The process involves slicing bitter gourd thinly, marinating the slices with a harmonious blend of spices and salt, sun-drying them to achieve optimal texture, and ultimately deep-frying them to perfection. Parikkai Vattal celebrates the fusion of flavors, bringing together the inherent bitterness of bitter gourd and the aromatic spices that coat the slices. This snack showcases the culinary heritage of South India while offering a tasteful exploration of bitter flavors in a form that’s both palatable and enticing.
Parikkai Vattal not only presents a delectable snack option but also offers potential health benefits rooted in its ingredients. Bitter gourd, known for its health-promoting properties, assumes a distinct character in this crispy form. The bitter taste is softened by the marination, making it a unique way to incorporate this vegetable into the diet. With each bite of Parikkai Vattal, one can experience a symphony of tastes and textures, marking a harmonious union of culinary creativity and nourishment.
Ingredients:
Sun dried bitter gourd circles, and salt.
How To Eat:
- As a Standalone Snack: Parikkai Vattal can be savored as a standalone snack. Pick up a piece and experience the combination of the crispy texture and the blend of spices that coat the bitter gourd.
- Pair with Rice: Incorporate Parikkai Vattal as a crunchy element in your rice dishes. Break or crush the vattals and mix them with rice for added flavor and texture.
- Yogurt Accompaniment: Pair Parikkai Vattal with plain yogurt or yogurt-based dips. The tanginess of the yogurt can complement the spices and bitterness of the snack.
- In Chaats: Experiment by adding crushed Parikkai Vattal to Indian chaats. It can bring an unexpected crunch and unique flavor to the chaat.
- Mindful Tasting: Savour each bite mindfully to appreciate the interplay of flavors, textures, and the distinct bitterness that characterizes Parikkai Vattal.
- Moderation: Consume Parikkai Vattal in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The deep-frying process makes it a calorie-dense snack.
- Culinary Exploration: If you’re new to Parikkai Vattal, approach it with an open mind. The combination of bitterness and spices may offer a unique and acquired taste.
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 Richness: Bitter gourd, the main ingredient of Parikkai Vattal, is a low-calorie vegetable rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins (including vitamin C and vitamin A), minerals (such as potassium and iron), and dietary fiber.
- Antioxidant Properties: Bitter gourd is known for its potential antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals and may contribute to overall health.
- Digestive Health: The dietary fiber content in bitter gourd can promote healthy digestion by supporting regular bowel movements and aiding gut health.
- Unique Flavor Profile: Parikkai Vattal allows you to experience the distinct bitterness of bitter gourd in a palatable form. The marination and deep-frying process softens the bitterness, making it a unique way to incorporate this vegetable into your diet.
- Mindful Eating: The combination of the crispy texture and unique flavor of Parikkai Vattal encourages mindful eating, as you Savour each bite and appreciate the interplay of tastes and textures.
- Cultural and Culinary Connection: Enjoying Parikkai Vattal offers an opportunity to connect with South Indian culinary traditions and explore the creative use of local ingredients.
- Moderation: Consuming Parikkai Vattal in moderation can be a satisfying and flavorful snack option that contributes to a diverse diet.
