Thakkali Masiyal

thakkali means 'tomato' in tamil, the language used by the tamil people of india and sri lanka

This is a south Indian lentil and green tomato dish.

INGREDIENTS

5 cups water ¾ cup dry toor dal (yellow split peas) 4 cups chopped green tomatoes 1-2 small green chilies (ribs and seeds

removed), chopped 1 cup water 1 tbsp tamarind paste ¾ tsp salt

METHOD

In a large pot, bring the 5 cups of water to a boil. Add the toor dal and turn the heat down to medium-high. Cook uncovered until the dal is tender and starting to fall apart, about 30-35 minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and chilies and waterw and cook covered for 10 minutes ono medium heat. Add the remaining ingredientsi and cover the pot, leaving the lid slightly ajar. Cook for another 20-30 minutes – the tomatoes should be very soft and falling apart, and the mixture should be thick and brownish-red and have reduced by about a third. Serve with basmati rice and papadums.