Mango Neem Flower Pachidi - A recipe for Tamil New Year

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Introduction:
Mango Neem Flower Pachadi is a traditional dish prepared for Tamil New Year (Chittirai Varuda Pirappu). It symbolizes the various flavors of life—sweet, sour, bitter, and spicy—through ingredients like raw mango, neem flowers, and jaggery. This unique pachadi is a must-try to mark the festive day.

Ingredients:

  • Raw Mango: 1 medium-sized
  • Asafoetida: 1 pinch
  • Salt: To taste
  • Turmeric Powder: 1 pinch
  • Green Chillies: 2 nos (slit)
  • Jaggery: 1/2 cup
  • Mustard Seeds: 1/4 tsp
  • Oil or Ghee: 1 tbsp
  • Neem Flowers: 1 tbsp (fresh or dried)

Method to Make Mango Neem Flower Pachadi:

  1. Prepare the Mango:

    • Wash and peel the mango.
    • Cut it into small pieces or slices.

  2. Cook the Mango:

    • In a pan, add 1 cup of water, turmeric powder, and half of the salt.
    • Add the mango pieces and cook until soft. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.

  3. Prepare the Jaggery Syrup:

    • In another pan, add jaggery and 1/4 cup of water.
    • Stir well and bring it to a boil. Strain the syrup to remove any impurities.

  4. Combine Mango and Jaggery:

    • Add the cooked mango pieces to the jaggery syrup.
    • Let it simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.

  5. Prepare the Tempering:

    • Heat oil or ghee in a small pan.
    • Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.
    • Add green chillies and sauté briefly.

  6. Add Neem Flowers:

    • Add the neem flowers to the tempering (optional: fry them lightly for enhanced flavor).
    • Pour the tempering over the mango-jaggery mixture and mix well.

  7. Final Touch:

    • Adjust salt to taste and mix in a pinch of asafoetida for added flavor.
    • Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves (optional).

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve Mango Neem Flower Pachadi as a side dish with steamed rice and other festive delicacies.
  • It is best enjoyed fresh and chilled during Tamil New Year celebrations.

Pro Tips:

  • Using fresh neem flowers enhances the flavor and aroma of the pachadi.
  • Ensure the jaggery syrup is free from impurities by straining it before use.
  • Adjust the amount of jaggery based on the desired sweetness level.

This pachadi embodies the essence of Tamil New Year, symbolizing life’s balance of flavors. It is a simple yet deeply meaningful dish with rich cultural significance.

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