Namaskaram (Hello)!
Welcome to the world of Kudampuli, also known as Malabar Tamarind, one of Kerala’s most treasured and versatile ingredients. Revered in traditional Kerala cuisine, especially in Kottayam, Kudampuli is a must-have for anyone who appreciates authentic, bold flavors in their cooking.
At Malanadu Spice, we bring you the finest Dried Malabar Tamarind (Kudampuli), harvested by dedicated farmers from the lush hills of the Western Ghats. This unique fruit, with its tangy, sour flavor, adds depth to a variety of dishes and offers a range of health benefits that have been cherished for centuries.
What is Kudampuli (Malabar Tamarind)?
Kudampuli is a small, green fruit that grows in the forests of the Western Ghats. It is known for its intense sourness and is traditionally used in a variety of Kerala dishes like Fish Curry, Sambar, and Rasam. The dried form of Kudampuli is a common ingredient in many traditional recipes, contributing its distinctive tart flavor.
The Collection and Drying Process
Our Kudampuli is sourced directly from the farmers of the Western Ghats, ensuring that you get the purest, most authentic product. These farmers harvest the fruit during its peak season, ensuring maximum flavor and nutritional value.
The process of drying the Kudampuli is an art in itself. After being hand-picked, the fruits are carefully washed and then sun-dried. This natural drying process helps retain the unique flavor, nutrients, and medicinal properties of the fruit, making it a valuable addition to your pantry.
Unlike many mass-produced versions, our Dried Kudampuli is carefully curated, with no artificial preservatives or chemicals. It’s 100% natural, keeping the essence of Kerala intact.
The Benefits of Kudampuli (Malabar Tamarind)
- Rich in Antioxidants: Kudampuli is packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radicals and support overall health.
- Supports Digestion: Traditionally used as a digestive aid, Kudampuli is known to enhance digestion, reduce acidity, and promote a healthy stomach.
- Weight Loss: Kudampuli is believed to help with weight management by boosting metabolism and acting as a natural fat-burner.
- Rich in Vitamin C: The fruit is a rich source of Vitamin C, which helps boost immunity, skin health, and overall wellness.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Kudampuli has natural anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the body.
- Helps in Managing Cholesterol: Studies suggest that the active compounds in Kudampuli may help regulate cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
How to Use Dried Kudampuli in Your Cooking
While Kudampuli is commonly used in fish and meat curries, its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of dishes. Simply soak a few pieces of dried Kudampuli in warm water for 15–20 minutes before adding it to your recipes. Its sourness will infuse your dish with a rich, tangy flavor that is unique to Kerala cuisine.
Kudampuli Lehyam (Tamarind Jam)
One of the most popular traditional preparations of Kudampuli is Kudampuli Lehyam, a sweet, tangy, and spicy herbal jam that has been used for centuries in Kerala for its numerous health benefits. It’s a combination of the intense flavors of Kudampuli, ginger, turmeric, and various medicinal herbs.
How to Prepare Kudampuli Lehyam (Tamarind Jam)
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pieces of Dried Kudampuli
- 1 tablespoon Ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon Jaggery or honey (for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Pepper (optional, for added heat)
- 1 tablespoon Ghee (Clarified butter)
- A pinch of Cardamom powder
Instructions:
- Soak Kudampuli: Soak the dried Kudampuli in water for about 15–20 minutes to soften. Once softened, remove the seeds and blend the pulp into a smooth paste.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a pan, heat a little ghee and add the Kudampuli paste. Add the ginger powder, turmeric powder, and pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Lehyam: Add the jaggery or honey and mix until it’s completely dissolved. Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens and the ghee starts separating from the sides.
- Finishing Touches: Add a pinch of cardamom powder for a pleasant aroma. Once the mixture has thickened to a jam-like consistency, remove it from the heat.
- Cool and Store: Allow the Kudampuli Lehyam to cool before storing it in an airtight jar.
Benefits of Kudampuli Lehyam:
- Digestive Aid: The combination of Kudampuli, ginger, and turmeric is known to soothe the stomach, alleviate bloating, and promote healthy digestion.
- Improves Immunity: With its high Vitamin C content, Kudampuli Lehyam helps strengthen the immune system, making it a perfect remedy for seasonal illnesses.
- Supports Detoxification: The anti-inflammatory properties of Kudampuli, along with ginger and turmeric, help detoxify the body and promote liver health.
- Relieves Cough and Cold: This natural remedy is often used to treat cough, colds, and sore throat, providing relief with its soothing properties.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Regular consumption of Kudampuli Lehyam helps neutralize free radicals in the body, slowing down the aging process and improving skin health.
How to Consume Kudampuli Lehyam
Kudampuli Lehyam can be consumed in small amounts, typically 1–2 teaspoons daily. It can be eaten directly or mixed with warm water. It’s especially effective when taken in the morning or after meals for improved digestion.
Why Choose Malanadu Spice’s Dried Kudampuli?
At Malanadu Spice, we take great pride in offering only the best quality Dried Malabar Tamarind (Kudampuli). Sourced from the fertile lands of the Western Ghats, our Kudampuli is naturally grown, handpicked, and dried with care to preserve its authentic flavor and rich nutritional value.
Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavor of your dishes or reap the many health benefits of this amazing fruit, our Dried Kudampuli is a must-have in your kitchen.
Shop Now and bring the pure flavours of the Western Ghats to your home!
