Milagai to Kollu: 7 Types of South Indian Podis to Pair with Idli or Dosa

Be it chutneys, raitas or pickles, condiments are a staple in several regional Indian cuisines. They can enhance the flavor of any boring meal with their presence on the table. Talking particularly about the southern region, podi has a special in its traditional foods. It is basically a mixture of spices that is sprinkled on foods to add flavor. Podis are often eaten with rice, dal or minced meat or sprinkled on idlis or dosas. They are also known as chutney powder and are very easy to make. Here are seven different types of podis that you can try adding to your daily meals.

Milagai Podi (Gunpowder)

Commonly known as ‘gunpowder’ for its scorching heat, milagai podi is a must-have for many South Indian homes. Made with roasted lentils (urad dal and chana dal), dried red chillies, sesame seeds and a touch of jaggery, this Tamil Nadu specialty offers a spicy and sweet touch. In Andhra Pradesh, it is known to be a little more intense as dried coconut and garlic are added.

Ellu Podi (Sesame Seeds)

It is a mixture of roasted sesame seeds (ellu), black or white, mixed with lentils and spices such as asafoetida and red chillies. The nutty flavor of sesame seeds adds deliciousness to dishes and this podi is a great accompaniment to steamed rice with a splash of ghee.

Vazhakkai Podi (raw banana)

It is a unique variation that uses roasted raw banana or vazhakkai, mixed with roasted dals, red chillies and curry leaves. Grated or mashed banana adds a delicious texture to the podi, making it perfect with rice or even as a curry topping.

Chammanthi Podi (coconut)

Originating from Kerala, chammanthi podi is notable for its use of dried coconut. Toasted coconut, when combined with tamarind, urad dal, red chillies and curry leaves, gives a rich flavor to any boring meal. This podi is best served with rice or idlis.

Karuvepillai Podi (curry leaves)

Made from sun-dried curry leaves, karuvepillai podi is not only aromatic but also packed with health benefits. It is made with dals, red chillies and cumin seeds. This podi is said to improve digestion and appetite and goes excellently with hot rice and ghee.

Kollu Podi (Horse Gram)

Kollu podi is a powerhouse of nutrition as it is made from protein-rich horse gram (kollu). To prepare this condiment, roasted horse gram is combined with red chillies, garlic and curry leaves. It is ideal for people looking to lose weight and can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes, from rice to vegetable stir-fries.

Moringa Podi

Known for its medicinal properties, moringa podi uses dried moringa leaves as a base and is mixed with roasted lentils, red chillies and spices. This nutrient-dense podi is rich in iron and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to any meal. Add it to rice or soups for an extra nutritional boost.