Kandi Podi
A fragrant and nutty lentil spice powder from Andhra Pradesh. Made by roasting lentils and spices, this 'gun powder' is perfect mixed with hot rice and a dollop of ghee or sesame oil for a simple, comforting meal.
For 12 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Roast the Lentils
- b.Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over low-medium heat. Add the toor dal and dry roast, stirring continuously for 6-8 minutes until it turns light golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
- c.Transfer the roasted toor dal to a large plate to cool.
- d.In the same pan, roast the chana dal for 4-5 minutes until golden, then add it to the plate.
- e.Finally, roast the urad dal for 2-3 minutes until it turns a pale golden color and add it to the plate with the other lentils.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Roast Spices and Aromatics
- b.Return the pan to the heat. Add the cumin and coriander seeds and roast for about 1 minute until they become fragrant and slightly darker. Transfer them to the plate.
- c.Add 1 tsp of sesame oil to the pan. Add the dried red chilies and roast for 1-2 minutes until they puff up and turn a deeper red. Be careful not to burn them. Add them to the plate.
- d.If using, add the curry leaves and roast until crisp. If using garlic, add the cloves and roast until light brown spots appear. Add both to the plate.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cool Completely
- b.Spread all the roasted ingredients on the plate in a single layer and let them cool down completely to room temperature. This is a crucial step and takes about 30-40 minutes.
- c.Do not proceed to grind while the ingredients are even slightly warm, as this will result in a pasty, clumpy texture.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grind the Podi
- b.Once completely cool, transfer all the ingredients to a dry mixer grinder jar.
- c.Add the hing and salt.
- d.Pulse the grinder in short bursts of a few seconds each, scraping down the sides if needed. This prevents the grinder from heating up.
- e.Grind to a slightly coarse powder, which is the traditional texture. Avoid over-grinding into a fine powder.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Store
- b.Transfer the freshly ground Kandi Podi to a clean, dry, airtight glass jar.
- c.Let the podi sit with the lid off for about an hour to release any residual heat before sealing it. This prevents condensation and extends shelf life.
- d.Store at room temperature for up to 2 months. Serve with hot rice and ghee.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Roasting on low to medium heat is the secret to a flavorful podi. Rushing this step can burn the lentils, making the powder bitter.
- 2Ensure all ingredients are completely cool before grinding. Any warmth will release moisture and oils, making the podi clump together.
- 3For authentic flavor, use sesame oil (gingelly oil) for roasting the chilies, but any neutral oil will work.
- 4Store the podi in a glass jar instead of plastic to preserve its aroma and freshness for longer.
- 5A slightly coarse texture is traditional and provides a better mouthfeel when mixed with rice.
Adapt it for your goals.
Coconut Kandi Podi
Add 1/4 cup of dry desiccated coconut and roast it on low heat until golden. Grind it along with the other ingredients for a richer, slightly sweet flavor popular in some regions.
Flax Seed BoostFlax Seed Boost
For added Omega-3s and fiber, add 2 tablespoons of flax seeds (alsi) and roast them for a minute until they start to pop. Add them to the mix before grinding.
Peanut VersionPeanut Version
Add 1/4 cup of raw peanuts and roast them along with the dals until they are crunchy. This adds a wonderful nutty flavor and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The blend of toor, chana, and urad dals provides a high-quality plant-based protein, crucial for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body strength.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Lentils are packed with fiber, which promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for gut health.
Aids in Digestion
Spices like cumin, coriander, and hing (asafoetida) are well-known for their digestive properties. They help reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion.
Rich in Minerals
This lentil powder is a good source of essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium, which are vital for energy production, nerve function, and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Frequently asked questions
When stored in a clean, dry, airtight glass jar away from direct sunlight, Kandi Podi stays fresh for up to 2 months at room temperature. Do not refrigerate it, as this can introduce moisture.