Andhra Chilli Tomatoes
Andhra Chilli Tomatoes is a fiery and flavorful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of South Indian cuisine. With a base of roasted tomatoes, it is punctuated by the heat of green chilies and the aromatic blend of spices like red chili powder, turmeric, and coriander. This dish is a perfect accompaniment to rice and lentils, offering a tantalizing contrast of textures and a symphony of flavors that will awaken your taste buds.
The origins of Andhra Chilli Tomatoes lie deep within the rich culinary tapestry of Andhra Pradesh, a state renowned for its vibrant and fiery cuisine. It is believed that this dish emerged from the kitchens of humble homes, where resourceful cooks sought to create a flavorful and satisfying meal with limited ingredients. Over time, the recipe evolved and found its way into the menus of roadside eateries and traditional restaurants, becoming a beloved staple of Andhra cuisine.
Andhra Chilli Tomatoes Andhra Chilli Tomatoes Andhra Chilli Tomatoes Andhra Chilli Tomatoes
Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • Tomatoes (4-5)
  • Green chilies (2-3)
  • Onion (1)
  • Garlic (2-3 cloves)
  • Ginger (1 inch)
  • Red chili powder (1 tsp)
  • Turmeric powder (1/2 tsp)
  • Coriander powder (1 tsp)
Instructions
  1. Set the griller on medium-high heat.
  2. Roast the tomatoes. Keep turning them until they are charred on all sides.
  3. Remove the stem and discard. Peel off the charred skin and roughly chop.
  4. De-seed and finely chop the green chilies.
  5. Finely chop the onion, garlic and ginger.
  6. Heat some oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, urad dal and chana dal.
  7. When you hear them crackle, add the chopped onions, garlic and ginger.
  8. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the onions soften. Add the green chilies and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  9. Add the chopped tomatoes along with chili powder, turmeric and coriander powder.
  10. Mix well and cook for about 5 minutes, or until oil starts to release from the sides and the tomatoes are soft and combined with the spices.
  11. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and lemon juice.
  12. Serve with rice and lentils.
Why It Works
  • Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and concentrates their flavor, creating a rich base for the dish.
  • The combination of green chilies, red chili powder, and turmeric provides a harmonious balance of heat, spice, and earthy undertones.
  • The addition of aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
  • The careful timing and sequencing of adding spices allows each ingredient to infuse its unique flavor into the dish without overpowering the others.
  • Garnishing with chopped coriander leaves and lemon juice adds a refreshing touch and enhances the vibrant presentation.