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Chutneys & CondimentsSouth Indian (Tamil Nadu)VegetarianVeganHealthy / low-calorieSalnaEmpty SalnaParotta SalnaTamil NaduVegetarian GravyBiryani Side DishVeganFamily Recipe

Empty Salna

🍽 7 servings⏱ Prep 20 min Β· Cook 35 minπŸ”₯ ~209 kcal / serving
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Ingredients (17)

Servings
  • onion500 g
  • oil100 ml
  • ginger garlic paste3 tsp
  • tomatoes250 g
  • green chillies2
  • fresh coriander leaves0.25 bunch
  • fresh mint leaves0.25 bunch
  • red chilli powder1 tsp
  • coriander powder2 tsp
  • cumin powder1 tsp
  • curry masala powder2 tsp
  • salt
  • water4.5 cup
  • fresh coconut0.5 cup
  • poppy seeds1 tbsp
  • fennel seeds1 tsp
  • cashew nuts9

Method

  1. 1

    Grind the coconut, poppy seeds, fennel seeds and cashew nuts with a little water into a smooth paste. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed pan.

  3. 3

    Add the sliced onions and sautΓ© until golden brown.

  4. 4

    Stir in the ginger garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.

  5. 5

    Add the green chillies and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften.

  6. 6

    Add the red chilli powder, coriander powder, cumin powder and curry masala powder. Cook for 2–3 minutes.

  7. 7

    Stir in the ground coconut paste and cook for another 3–4 minutes.

  8. 8

    Add 4–5 cups of water and salt to taste.

  9. 9

    Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavours to develop.

  10. 10

    Add the chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

  11. 11

    Adjust the consistency if required. Salna should be thin enough to pour but still slightly creamy.

  12. 12

    Serve hot.

Notes & variations

Parotta Chapati Dosa Idiyappam Biryani Kuska (Plain Biryani Rice) Traditionally served with Tamil Nadu Parotta as "Empty Salna" (without meat). Add boiled potatoes, peas or mixed vegetables for a vegetable salna. A pinch of garam masala can be added at the end for extra aroma. The salna tastes even better after resting for a few hours or the next day. For an authentic hotel-style flavour, finish with a teaspoon of coconut oil before serving.

Nutrition

estimated
Servings
209
Calories
11.8
Carbs
2.3
Protein
18
Fat
3.8
Fibre
Per1 serving7 servings
Calories209 kcal1463 kcal
Carbs11.8 g82.6 g
Protein2.3 g16.1 g
Fat18 g126 g
Fibre3.8 g26.6 g