Parippu Curry, also known as Kerala-style Dal Curry, is a delicious and comforting South Indian dish made from red lentils (masoor dal) cooked with coconut and spices. It’s a staple in Kerala cuisine and is often served with rice, ghee (clarified butter), and various side dishes. Here’s a basic recipe for Parippu Curry:

Ingredients:

1 cup red lentils (masoor dal) 2 cups water 1/2 cup grated coconut 2-3 green chilies (adjust to your spice preference) 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder Salt to taste For Tempering (Tadka):

2 tablespoons coconut oil (traditional, but you can use any cooking oil) 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 2-3 dried red chilies A few curry leaves 2-3 cloves of garlic (optional, crushed or minced) Instructions:

1. Wash the red lentils (masoor dal) thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.

2. In a large saucepan or pressure cooker, combine the washed lentils with 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil.

3. Once it starts boiling, add the turmeric powder and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the lentils until they become soft and mushy, stirring occasionally. If you’re using a pressure cooker, cook for about 2-3 whistles.

4. While the lentils are cooking, prepare the coconut paste. Grind the grated coconut and green chilies together into a smooth paste using a little water.

5. Once the lentils are cooked, add the coconut-green chili paste and salt to the lentils. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. In a separate small frying pan, heat the coconut oil for tempering. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add the cumin seeds, dried red chilies, curry leaves, and crushed/minced garlic if using. Fry for a minute or so until the spices release their aroma and the garlic turns golden.

7. Pour the tempering mixture over the cooked lentils and coconut mixture. Stir everything together.

8. Let the Parippu Curry simmer for a couple more minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. If the curry is too thick, you can add a bit of water to achieve your desired consistency.

9. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.

10. Serve hot with steamed rice and a drizzle of ghee for a traditional Kerala meal. You can also enjoy it with other South Indian side dishes like pickle or thoran (vegetable stir-fry).

Enjoy your homemade Parippu Curry, a comforting and flavorful dish from Kerala!