Indulging in Mango Dal

The sweet delight of a cooling drizzle on a hot May afternoon in Bangalore, as the city gets her much-awaited relief from the scorching summer sun! There’s nothing better than enjoying a bowl of tangy Mango Dal Rice on these rainy afternoons.

What is Mango Dal?

It’s a meal that spells comfort in every mouthful. Mango dal, or Mamidikaya Pappu, is a delicious and nutritious stew made with lentils and raw mangoes. It has a tangy and sour flavor that’s perfect for balancing out any meal.The primary component in the meal is raw mango, which has a characteristic sour flavour. A layer of warmth and colour is added by the use of the turmeric and red chilli powder, producing a dish that is both beautiful and tasty.

Recpie and how to make it?

Well, folks, here’s a hilarious twist in my mango dal tale. Turns out, I have absolutely no clue how to cook it! So, while I may have misled you with my mango dal ignorance, allow me to redeem myself by sharing this fantastic video that will guide you through the steps of making this delightful dish.

As my mother prepares mango dal, My attention is instantly drawn by the pot’s strong aroma. The tantalizing smell of lentils and raw mangoes mingling with the earthy aroma of the rain-soaked environment creates a sensory experience that’s truly incomparable.

Accompaniments

No meal is complete without its companions, and there is no exception here. The crispy papads, gently toasted to perfection and lots of desi ghee, And then there is the tangy pickle, a burst of flavors that added an element of excitement to every bite.

A Tree of Memories:

The mango tree in our ancestral home in Vizag stands tall.This revered tree, which grew luscious mangoes, was more than just a feature of our house — It represented wealth, affection, and the right setting for countless memories. For a season, the tree yielded at least 1500 mangoes. We had the honour of enjoying this dish so beloved and distinctively excellent during those humid summers in Vizag. Every alternate afternoon in a week Mango dal is the key part of our lunch.

As the rain falls outside my window, I am taken back to those treasured moments in Bangalore’s rainy May. Indulging in Mango Dal, papad, and pickle was not just about satisfying hunger; it was a celebration of family, tradition, and the enduring flavors of Telugu cuisine. I believe that food, like the weather, has a profound effect on our emotions and surely brightens up any rainy afternoon. Here’s to many more delightful culinary journeys and heartwarming moments.

Cheers,

Sim