Hey there, fellow food and craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, ready to share a recipe that’s close to my heart: Cherry Umman. This vibrant and tangy dipping curry, a staple in my home, is incredibly easy to whip up and pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Picture this: the aroma of simmering spices fills your kitchen as you craft a vibrant, flavor-packed sauce that’s bursting with the goodness of fresh acerola cherries. Intrigued? Let’s dive in!
Gathering Your Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors Awaits
Just like selecting the finest paintbrushes for a masterpiece, gathering quality ingredients is key to crafting an exceptional Cherry Umman. Here’s what you’ll need:
Star of the Show:
- 500g ripe acerola cherries (Those gorgeous red gems are packed with vitamins and antioxidants!)
Spice Palette:
- 35g medium-hot green chilies (Slit them lengthwise for a gentle release of heat)
- 1 sprig of curry leaves (Their aroma is simply intoxicating!)
- 15g Kashmiri chili powder (For that vibrant red hue and a touch of warmth)
- 1g turmeric powder (A pinch for its earthy flavor and health benefits)
- 1g asafoetida powder (Don’t be intimidated by its pungent aroma; it adds a unique depth of flavor)
Enhancing the Magic:
- 15ml coconut oil (Its subtle sweetness complements the tangy cherries)
- 2g mustard seeds (Those tiny pops of flavor add a delightful crunch)
- 1g fenugreek seeds (Adding a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness)
- 20g salt (Adjust to your preference)
- 500ml water (To create the base of our flavorful curry)
Crafting Your Cherry Umman Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Journey
Remember those art classes where the instructor guided you, step by step, to create your masterpiece? Consider me your guide as we embark on this culinary adventure together!
-
The Cherry Bath: Place your washed acerola cherries in a saucepan. Add the slit green chilies, chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and water.
-
Simmering the Flavors: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, partially cover, and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cherries will soften, releasing their tangy sweetness.
-
The Spice Infusion: While the cherries simmer, heat coconut oil in a skillet. Add mustard seeds and wait for them to pop. Then, toss in the fenugreek seeds until they turn fragrant.
-
Adding Aromatic Depth: Drop in the curry leaves and asafoetida powder. Stir briefly and turn off the heat. Pour this fragrant mixture into the saucepan with the cherries.
-
The Final Touch: Stir the curry, cover, and let the flavors meld. Your Cherry Umman is ready!
Serving and Savoring Your Creation
Like a proudly displayed piece of art, your Cherry Umman deserves a beautiful presentation! Serve it hot alongside:
- Boiled Cassava: The subtle flavor of cassava (recipe below!) provides a beautiful canvas for the Cherry Umman’s vibrancy.
- Baked or Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of potatoes complements the tangy curry beautifully.
- Steamed Rice: The simplicity of rice allows the complex flavors of the Cherry Umman to shine.
- Dosas: These thin, crispy crepes, a staple in South Indian cuisine, offer a delightful textural contrast.
Bonus: A Simple Boiled Cassava Recipe
- Wash and peel 2 kilos of cassava. Chop it into 2-inch chunks and pressure cook with 15g salt and enough water to cover for 5 minutes after the first whistle.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker and draining the broth.
- Serve your hot, tender cassava with a generous helping of Cherry Umman!
A Final Word from Robert Kline
Just like art, cooking is a journey of exploration and creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors, adding your unique touch to this traditional recipe. And remember, the most important ingredient is always love!
Now, it’s your turn! Share your Cherry Umman creations and culinary adventures with me in the comments below. And for more handcrafted culinary inspiration, explore the treasure trove of unique recipes on Robert Kline Art. Happy cooking!
P.S.: Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpieces on social media and spread the joy of handcrafted food!